IA Cheat Sheet 2026

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

1. To qualify for an IA, the applicant must have performed at least how many hours of maintenance work on aircraft during the preceding 2-year period? → 1,000 hours
2. An IA completes an annual inspection but finds one unairworthy item. What must happen before the return-to-service entry can be made? → The unairworthy item must be repaired or, if deferrable under an MEL, properly deferred
3. Which regulation specifically lists fuel filters and strainers as items that must be inspected during an annual inspection? → 14 CFR Part 43, Appendix D
4. What is a common sign of corrosion in aluminum aircraft structures? → Surface bubbling and pitting
5. Which of the following activities satisfies one of the renewal requirements under 14 CFR 65.93? → Performing at least 5 annual inspections during the preceding 12 months
6. Which part of the CFR governs aircraft maintenance regulations? → 14 CFR Part 43
7. What is the consequence of failing to comply with FAA maintenance regulations? → Civil penalties and certificate action
8. Who has the authority to approve an aircraft for return to service after a major alteration? → Mechanic with IA
9. An IA holder who fails to meet renewal requirements by March 31 must do what to regain the authorization? → Reapply and meet all original eligibility requirements
10. If an IA holder moves to a new location, what must they do regarding their authorization? → Notify the new local FSDO and update their address of record
11. What is the most common cause of hydraulic fluid leaks at line connections during maintenance inspections? → Improper torque on fittings
12. Which document governs the inspection of aircraft electrical systems and wiring? → AC 43.13-1B, Chapter 11
13. What must be included in an aircraft maintenance entry? → Description, date, signature, certificate info
14. When approving a major repair on an aircraft using data from AC 43.13-1B, what must the IA determine first? → That the manufacturer has not issued contrary data that would take precedence over the AC
15. During an annual, what inspection is typically performed on a constant-speed propeller? → Pitch setting verification and governor operational check
16. What can an IA holder do if they find an aircraft does NOT meet airworthiness standards during an annual inspection? → Disapprove the aircraft for return to service and record the discrepancies
17. During an annual, the IA checks the aircraft's lighting system. Which light is required to be inspected for proper operation on a VFR day-only aircraft? → Both position lights and anti-collision lights must be inspected per Appendix D
18. What must be confirmed before returning an aircraft to service after major repairs? → Compliance with airworthiness standards
19. Which FAA office issues an Inspection Authorization? → Flight Standards District Office (FSDO)
20. What must an IA holder do to renew their authorization each year? → Demonstrate activity by meeting one of the requirements listed in 14 CFR 65.93
21. What inspection method is most commonly used to detect surface cracks in metal structures? → Dye penetrant inspection
22. What is required in a maintenance entry for return to service? → Work summary and FAA certificate number
23. When inspecting flexible fuel hoses during an annual inspection, which condition requires immediate replacement? → Visible cracks, hardening, or deterioration of the outer cover
24. During an annual inspection of a VFR aircraft, what is required regarding the transponder? → It must be tested and inspected every 24 calendar months per 14 CFR 91.413
25. An Inspection Authorization can be suspended or revoked by the FAA for what reason? → For any unsafe practice, incompetence, or fraud related to aviation duties
26. Which of the following is an IA holder permitted to approve for return to service? → Annual inspections and major repairs/alterations
27. Who may approve a major alteration for return to service? → A certificated IA, a certificated repair station, or an FAA inspector
28. During an annual inspection, an IA finds hydraulic fluid seeping past the piston rod seal of a landing gear actuator. What action is required? → Replace the seals or overhaul the actuator before returning to airworthy service
29. What is the correct method for checking fluid level in an aircraft hydraulic reservoir during an inspection? → Follow the specific aircraft manufacturer's maintenance manual instructions
30. Which regulation requires proper recordkeeping of aircraft maintenance? → 14 CFR Part 43