Which of the following inspections may be performed by a certificated airframe and powerplant mechanic for the purpose of returning an aircraft to service?

• A. An annual inspection under specific circumstances
• B. A progressive inspection under specific circumstances
• C. A 100 hour inspection
• D. A minor repair

Answer: (C)

The core idea is which inspection type an A&P mechanic is authorized to use to return an aircraft to service. A certificated airframe and powerplant mechanic is specifically empowered to perform and certify a 100-hour inspection and release the aircraft back to service after that work. This inspection is designed to be done between other required cycles and is within the mechanic’s privileges to inspect, sign off, and make the aircraft airworthy again.

Annual inspections are more comprehensive and require an Inspection Authorization (IA) to perform and approve the release to service, not just a regular A&P. Progressive inspections are an operator’s program that substitutes some annual work but still require oversight and signing authority that typically goes beyond a single A&P’s solo release. A minor repair, while something a mechanic can perform, is not an inspection aimed at returning an aircraft to service in the sense of restoring airworthiness after routine maintenance.

So, the 100-hour inspection is the best fit for returning an aircraft to service under the A&P’s permitted scope.