Airframe Mechanic Airframe Inspection Questions and Answers

Question 1

According to 14 CFR Part 43, which of the following is authorized to perform an annual inspection and approve an aircraft for return to service?

Accepted Answer

An A&P mechanic holding an Inspection Authorization (IA).

Answer

14 CFR Part 43 specifies the performance standards and authorized persons for maintenance. While an A&P mechanic can perform a 100-hour inspection, only an A&P with a separate Inspection Authorization (IA), a certified repair station, or the aircraft manufacturer can perform an annual inspection and approve the aircraft for return to service.

Question 2

A technician needs to inspect an aluminum wing spar for suspected subsurface cracks that are not open to the surface. Which Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) method is most suitable for this task?

Accepted Answer

Eddy Current Inspection

Answer

Eddy Current Inspection uses electromagnetic induction to detect discontinuities in conductive materials. It is highly effective for finding surface and near-surface cracks, even when they are filled with debris or under paint, and is ideal for subsurface flaws in non-ferromagnetic metals like aluminum. Dye penetrant only works on surface-breaking flaws, and magnetic particle is for ferromagnetic materials.

Question 3

During a pre-purchase inspection, a mechanic is reviewing the aircraft's maintenance records. Which of the following is true regarding Airworthiness Directives (ADs)?

Accepted Answer

Compliance with an applicable AD is mandatory and must be documented in the maintenance records.

Answer

Airworthiness Directives (ADs) are legally enforceable regulations issued by the FAA under 14 CFR Part 39 to correct an unsafe condition. Compliance with all applicable ADs is mandatory for an aircraft to be considered airworthy, and this compliance must be properly recorded in the maintenance logs.

Question 4

While performing a tap test on a composite honeycomb control surface, an inspector notes a distinct change in sound from a sharp, ringing noise to a dull thud in a localized area. This sound change most likely indicates:

Accepted Answer

Delamination or a disbond between the skin and the core.

Answer

A tap test relies on acoustic feedback. A well-bonded, solid structure produces a clear, ringing sound. A dull, dead, or "thud" sound indicates a void or separation, such as a delamination or disbond, which absorbs the sound energy instead of transmitting it.

Question 5

An inspector observes fine, dark, soot-like trails extending aft from several rivet heads on the fuselage skin. What is this condition commonly called and what does it indicate?

Accepted Answer

A "smoking rivet," indicating movement and fretting in the joint.

Answer

The dark, soot-like trail is aluminum oxide powder that has been forced out of the joint by movement. This condition, known as a "smoking rivet," is a sign of looseness and fretting (microscopic rubbing) between the rivet and the skin, which can compromise the integrity of the joint.

Airframe Mechanic Certification Practice Test

Airframe Mechanic Certification Practice Test

Airframe Mechanic Airframe Inspection Questions and Answers