ASI Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield ASI facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which phase of the Threat and Error Management (TEM) framework involves anticipating hazards before they lead to crew errors? → Threat management
2. Which of the following is considered a safety assurance activity in SMS? → Monitoring the effectiveness of safety procedures
3. What is the purpose of generating an aviation inspection report? → To document the condition of the aircraft and ensure corrective actions
4. What role do checklists play in aircraft inspections? → They ensure all necessary components are thoroughly checked
5. Which type of ASI surveillance activity involves observing and evaluating flight crew performance during normal revenue operations from the cockpit jump seat? → En route inspection
6. Under 14 CFR Part 121, which document authorizes an air carrier to defer inoperative equipment and continue flight operations under specified conditions? → Minimum Equipment List (MEL)
7. In CRM terminology, what does 'authority gradient' refer to? → The perceived difference in authority between crew members that can inhibit communication
8. Under 14 CFR Part 121.709, an Aviation Safety Inspector's authority to inspect a Part 121 air carrier operation extends to: → Any Part 121 aircraft at any time or place
9. What is the role of a safety inspector during an aircraft inspection? → To ensure all safety protocols are followed during the inspection
10. What does a steady red light gun signal from ATC indicate to an aircraft on the ground? → Stop immediately
11. Under 49 CFR Part 830, an air carrier must immediately notify the NTSB when which event occurs? → An aircraft accident involving fatal injury, serious injury, or substantial damage
12. Why are reporting techniques critical in aviation inspections? → To ensure that safety concerns are documented and acted upon
13. What does Part 91 of the FARs primarily address? → The general operating and flight rules for civil aviation
14. Under 14 CFR Part 139.337, what action is required of a certificated airport following a wildlife strike that causes aircraft damage? → Conduct a wildlife hazard assessment if specific criteria are met
15. Under 14 CFR Part 121 Subpart Z, a Fatigue Risk Management System (FRMS) used as an alternative to specific Part 117 provisions must be: → Approved by the FAA and based on current fatigue science and operational data
16. What is the purpose of an aircraft's performance check? → To verify engine efficiency and flight performance
17. What distinguishes 'startle effect' from 'surprise' in aviation human factors research? → Startle is an involuntary physiological reflex; surprise is a cognitive emotional response
18. Which entity is responsible for establishing aviation safety standards in the United States? → The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
19. Which of the following is considered one of the four essential components of a Safety Management System (SMS) as defined by the FAA and ICAO? → Safety Risk Management
20. Under FAR 91.3, who bears ultimate responsibility for the safe loading and weight/balance of a commercial aircraft? → The pilot in command
21. When an ASI determines that an air carrier's continued operation poses an immediate threat to public safety, what is the most appropriate enforcement action? → Issuing an Emergency Order of Suspension or Revocation
22. Under FAR Part 117, what is the minimum rest period required before a flight duty period for Part 121 operations? → 10 consecutive hours
23. Under 14 CFR Part 119.65, which credential must the Director of Operations of a Part 121 air carrier hold or have held? → An Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate
24. What does a risk assessment in SMS help to identify? → Safety hazards and their associated risks
25. What term describes the gradual acceptance of hazardous conditions as normal after they are repeatedly encountered without incident? → Normalization of deviance
26. Under FAA enforcement policy, a Warning Notice is the appropriate action when: → A first-time, inadvertent violation with no safety significance has been identified
27. What does 'circadian rhythm disruption' mean in the context of pilot fatigue management? → Desynchronization of the body's internal 24-hour biological clock affecting alertness
28. What is a key component in ensuring aviation safety during maintenance? → Regular inspections and adherence to maintenance procedures
29. Under which circumstances is a 'truth-in-leasing' clause required in a lease or conditional sales contract for a large civil aircraft of U.S. registry? → In all leases or contracts, except for certain arrangements between air carriers.
30. What is one of the key responsibilities of aviation safety inspectors? → To inspect aircraft and operations for compliance