05/08/2018
Outline
Testing
and Inspection
Lecture by Engr. John Gabriel G. Decena
FEATI University
Introduction
 Airworthiness of an aircraft is the number
priority in the industry henceforth
standard maintenance and inspection
processes had been established by the
different regulatory bodies.
 This maintenance practices however
requires careful verification through what
we call inspection wherein the part or
material under scrutiny may be subjected
into different testing methods.
FEATI University
 Introduction
 Aircraft Structural Members
 Aircraft Materials Testing
 Destructive
 Non-Destructive
 Inspection Fundamentals
 Preparation and Documentation
 Scheduled
1–1 FEATI University
 Non-Scheduled 1–2
Introduction
 This may pinpoint the problem which
could lead to accidents and furthermore
help in the creation of preventive
measures in the future.
 On the side of manufacturing and design
new or improved materials normally goes
what we call destructive testing which
will verify its properties/characteristics as
well as its suitability to certain
applications in the aerospace industry.
1–3 FEATI University 1–4
 05/08/2018

Types of Testing TENSION TESTING

 Majority of the test methods used today
are designed for metals, however some
can also be used for non-metals such as
composite.
 Testing is generally classified into:
 Destructive
 Non-destructive
 A tension test is probably the most valuable test
that can be made to obtain the basic properties
of a material.
 It is a fundamental test in which a sample is
subjected to a controlled tension until failure.
 Besides the ultimate tensile strength, it is
possible to obtain the yield strength, the
elongation, and the reduction of area. From
these measurements the following properties
can also be determined: Young's
modulus, Poisson's ratio, yield strength,
and strain-hardening characteristics.

FEATI University 1–5 FEATI University 1–6

TENSION TESTING TENSION TESTING

The most common testing machine used in tensile

testing is the universal testing machine.
FEATI University 1–7 FEATI University 1–8
 05/08/2018

BENDING TEST BENDING TEST

Bend testing determines
the ductility or the
strength of a material by
bending the material
over a given
radius. Following the
bend, the sample is
inspected for cracks on
the outer surface. Bend
testing provides insight
into the modulus of
elasticity and the
bending strength or a Three-Point Bend Test

material.
FEATI University 1–9 FEATI University 1 – 10

IMPACT TESTING IMPACT TESTING

• Impact test consists of notching a piece of
material on one side and then fixing it in a
machine so that it can be broken by means of a
falling weight or a heavy swinging pendulum.
• It has practically no absolute value, but can be
used to compare two pieces of material of
identical composition and tensile strength.
• The chief use of this test is to determine whether
a batch of material has been subjected to the
correct heat treatment.
• Extremely ductile material cannot be impact
tested satisfactorily because it bends while
breaking.
FEATI University 1 – 11 FEATI University 1 – 12

Izod Impact Test
In this test a notched
specimen is clamped in heavy
jaws, with the notch level with
the top of the jaws and facing
a heavy pendulum.
Breaking the specimen
retards the pendulum and
reduces its upswing. The
height of the reduced upswing
is measured on a quadrant
calibrated in foot-pounds.
FEATI University
Charpy Impact Test
FEATI University
05/08/2018
Charpy Impact Test
The test is similar to the Izod
impact test but uses a
different arrangement of the
specimen under test. It differs
from the Izod impact test in
that the sample is held in a
three-point bending
configuration as opposed to a
cantilevered beam
configuration.
The Izod test strikes the
sample of the notch side,
where as, the Charpy test
strikes it on the back side of
the key hole, or v-notch.
1 – 13 FEATI University 1 – 14
FATIGUE TESTING
Material subjected to vibrational stresses have
frequently failed at much smaller loads than
anticipated. Investigation disclosed that each
material has a fatigue stress beyond which it is not
safe to load it repeatedly.
For hard steels, a 2,000,000 cycle test is necessary to
definitely establish fatigue stress; for soft steels
10,000,000 cycles are necessary; for aluminum and
magnesium alloys, 500,000,000 cycles of completely
reversed stress are required.
1 – 15 FEATI University 1 – 16
 05/08/2018

FATIGUE TESTING HARDNESS TESTING

The hardness test is normally done on metals to
determine their resistance to penetration or cutting.

There are 3 methods on determining the hardness of

the materials namely:
1. Brinell
2. Vickers
3. Rockwell

FEATI University 1 – 17 FEATI University 1 – 18

Brinell Hardness Test Common Brinell Value

The Brinell scale characterizes the indentation
hardness of materials through the scale of
penetration of an indenter, loaded on a material test-
piece. It is one of several definitions of hardness in
materials science.

FEATI University 1 – 19 FEATI University 1 – 20

 05/08/2018

Brinell Hardness Test Vickers Hardness Test

The Vickers test is often easier to use than other
hardness tests since the required calculations are
independent of the size of the indenter, and the
indenter can be used for all materials irrespective of
hardness.

The basic principle, as with all common measures of

hardness, is to observe the questioned material's
ability to resist plastic deformation from a standard
source. The Vickers test can be used for all metals
and has one of the widest scales among hardness
tests.

FEATI University 1 – 21 FEATI University 1 – 22

Vickers Hardness Test Vickers Hardness Test

The unit of hardness given by the test is known as
the Vickers Pyramid Number (HV) or Diamond
Pyramid Hardness (DPH).

FEATI University 1 – 23 FEATI University 1 – 24

 05/08/2018

Rockwell Hardness Test Rockwell Hardness Test

The Rockwell scale is a hardness scale based on
indentation hardness of a material. The Rockwell test
determines the hardness by measuring the depth of
penetration of an indenter under a large load
compared to the penetration made by a preload.

The Equation is Simply:

FEATI University 1 – 25 FEATI University 1 – 26

Rockwell Hardness Test Non-Destructive Testing

• Aircraft repair and inspection requires special
types of test wherein a material or part must be
returned to condition. This set of test is called
Non-Destructive Test. This type of test may be
done on a part or assembly.
• NDT includes:
• Visual
• Liquid Penetrant
• Magnetic Particle
• Ultrasonic
• Radiographic
• Tap test
• Eddy Current
FEATI University 1 – 27 FEATI University 1 – 28
 05/08/2018

Visual Inspection Visual Inspection

• Visual inspection can be enhanced by
looking at the suspect area with a bright
light, a magnifying glass, and a mirror
(when required). Some defects might be
so obvious that further inspection
methods are not required. The lack of
visible defects does not necessarily mean
further inspection is unnecessary. Some
defects may lie beneath the surface or
may be so small that the human eye, even
with the assistance of a magnifying glass,
cannot detect them.
FEATI University 1 – 29 FEATI University 1 – 30

Visual Inspection Tools Visual Inspection Tools

• Inspection Mirrors
• Magnifying Glass
• Microscope
• Borescope
• Optic Fiber cameras
Inspection Analog and Digital Borescope (Fiber
Mirrors Optic)

FEATI University 1 – 31 FEATI University 1 – 32

 05/08/2018

Liquid Penetrant Inspection Liquid Penetrant Inspection Procedures

• Penetrant inspection is a nondestructive test for
defects open to the surface in parts made of any 1. Pre-cleaning
nonporous material. It cannot be used on woods 2. Application of Penetrant
and porous materials. a. Note: Dwell time is around 5-30 minutes
3. Excess Penetrant Removal
• Penetrant inspection will detect such defects as 4. Application of Developer
surface cracks or porosity. It will also indicate a 5. Inspection
lack of bond between joined metals.
6. Post Cleaning
• The main disadvantage of penetrant inspection is
that the defect must be open to the surface in
order to let the penetrant get into the defect.

FEATI University 1 – 33 FEATI University 1 – 34

Liquid Penetrant Inspection Procedures Liquid Penetrant Inspection

It is important that the The developer is a material that will, by the process
surface of the part be as of reverse capillary action, blot the penetrant out of
clean as possible. cracks or other defects where it will form a visible
Volatile petroleum-based line in the developer.
solvent are widely used
for cleaning parts to be Penetrant Types
inspected. Florescent Indication (Zyglo Check) – defects show
up as green lines on an ultraviolet or black light
The area to be is then covered with a penetrating
Coloured Dye Indication (Dye Check) – defects
liquid that has a very low volatility and low surface
show up as red lines on the white surface of the
tension. The dwell time (the time the penetrant is
developer
allowed to remain on the surface) is determined by
the size and shape of the discontinuity being looked
for.
FEATI University 1 – 35 FEATI University 1 – 36
 05/08/2018

Liquid Penetrant Inspection Eddy Current Inspection

Eddy current is used to detect
surface cracks, pits, subsurface
cracks, corrosion on inner
surfaces, and to determine alloy
and heat-treat condition. It
requires little or no part
preparation.

Low frequency eddy current

technique has been useful in
detecting crevice or galvanic Eddy currents are induced in a test article
corrosion between aluminum when an alternating current is applied to
a test coil (probe). The alternating current
skins. High frequency eddy in the coil induces an alternating
current is most applicable for magnetic field in the article which causes
detecting stress corrosion eddy currents to flow in the article
cracks.
FEATI University 1 – 37 FEATI University 1 – 38

Eddy Current Inspection Magnetic Particle Inspection

Magnetic particle inspection is a method of detecting invisible
cracks, seams, laps, and nonmetallic inclusions in
ferromagnetic materials such as iron and steel on or near the
surface. It is not applicable to nonmagnetic materials.

Effect of flux direction on strength of indication. To locate a defect in a part, it is

essential that the magnetic lines of force pass approximately perpendicular to
FEATI University 1 – 39 FEATI University
the defect. 1 – 40
 05/08/2018

Magnetic Particle Inspection Magnetic Particle Inspection

The following are general steps for inspecting on a 5. The part is either accepted or rejected, based on pre-defined
wet horizontal machine: criteria.
6. The part is demagnetized.
1. Part is cleaned of oil and other contaminants. 7. Depending on requirements, the orientation of the magnetic
2. Necessary calculations done to know the amount of field may need to be changed 90 degrees to inspect for
current required to magnetize the part. Refer ASTM indications that cannot be detected from steps 3 to 5.
E1444/E1444M for formulas.
3. The magnetizing pulse is applied for 0.5 seconds, during
which the operator washes the part with the particle, stopping
before the magnetic pulse is completed. Failure to stop prior
to end of the magnetic pulse will wash away indications.

4. UV light is applied while the operator looks for indications of

defects that are 0 to ±45 degrees from path the current flowed
through the part. Indications only appear 45 to 90 degrees of
the magnetic field applied.
FEATI University 1 – 41 FEATI University 1 – 42

Magnetic Particle Inspection Magnetic Particle Inspection

Both circular and longitudinal Effect of Flux Density
magnetization should be used As the flux density in the part is increased, the sensitivity of the
to reveal all possible defects. test increases because of the greater flux leakages at
Either circular and longitudinal discontinuities and the resulting improved formation of magnetic
magnetization can detect a 45° particle patterns.
crack.
Magnetizing Methods
1. Continuous Inspection Method – The part is magnetized and the
Circular magnetization of a camshaft indicating medium applied while the magnetizing force is maintained.
The continuous procedure provides greater sensitivity than the
Circular magnetization locates residual procedure, and is used more often in locating subsurface
defects running approximately discontinuities
parallel to the axis of the part 2. Residual Inspection Method – It involves magnetization of the part
while longitudinal and application of the indicating medium after the magnetizing force
magnetization locates defects has been removed. In general, the residual procedure is used only
running perpendicular to the with steels which have been heat treated for stressed applications. A
Longitudinal magnetization of a crankshaft
axis of the part. (solenoid method)
discontinuity found in a highly stressed area indicates a fatigue crack
FEATI University 1 – 43 FEATI University . 1 – 44
 05/08/2018

Magnetic Particle Inspection Magnetic Particle Inspection

Indicating Mediums Demagnitizing
The basic requirement for any indicating medium is that it
produce acceptable indications of discontinuities in parts. For
• Placing the part in an AC magnetic field whose
acceptable operation, the indicating medium must be of high strength is gradually reduced while continually
permeability and low retentivity. reversing its polarity.

1. Wet (Magnaglo/Magnaflux) - Fluorescent particle solution • Placing the part in a DC magnetic field whose
(powder suspended in oil) is used and the inspection is
made under black light. This is an excellent method for
direction is continually reversed and the strength
use on gears, threaded parts, and aircraft engine is gradually reduced.
components. The wet method has a higher sensitivity than
dry method and is more generally used.
2. Dry (Magnaflux) - Part is magnetized and then a
magnetizing powder (black iron oxide) is sprinkled.

FEATI University 1 – 45 FEATI University 1 – 46

Magnetic Particle Inspection Ultrasonic Inspection

Ultrasonic inspection uses a high-frequency
sound waves to detect faults in a material. It
can be used on a wide variety of materials
such as ferrous and non-ferrous, plastics
and ceramics. It can detect surface as well
as subsurface defects. Ultrasonic inspection
methods can be used for measurement of
material thickness in aircraft parts and
structures and can also detect corrosion
damage.

FEATI University 1 – 47 FEATI University 1 – 48

 05/08/2018

Ultrasonic Inspection Ultrasonic Inspection

b. Through Transmission - Through transmission
Methods of Inspection inspection uses two transducers, one to generate the pulse and
Immersion Testing – In this method, the part another placed on the opposite surface to receive it. Through
under examination and the search unit are totally transmission is less sensitive to small defects than the pulse-
immersed in a liquid couplant, which may be echo method.
water or any other suitable fluid. c. Resonance - This system
differs from the pulse method in
Contact Testing – This method is readily adapted that the frequency of
to field use. The part under examination and the transmission may be continuously
search unit are coupled with a viscous material, varied. The resonance method is
liquid or a paste, which wets both the face of the used principally for thickness
search unit and the material under examination. measurements when the two
sides of the material being tested
Pulse Echo - Flaws are detected by measuring are smooth and parallel and the
the amplitude of signals reflected and the time backside is inaccessible. Pulse-echo display in relationship to flaw
required for these signals to travel between detection.
FEATI University specific surfaces and the discontinuity. 1 – 49 FEATI University 1 – 50

Ultrasonic Inspection Radiographic (X-Ray) Inspection

Radiographic inspection techniques are used to
locate defects or flaws in airframe structures or
engines with little or no disassembly. Generally, x-
ray inspection is less sensitive than ultrasonic
inspection.

Radiography is used to detect the features of a

component or assembly that exhibit a difference in
thickness or density as compared to surrounding
material. It can also detect pitting corrosion and
stress corrosion cracks.

FEATI University 1 – 51 FEATI University 1 – 52

 05/08/2018

Radiographic (X-Ray) Inspection Radiographic (X-Ray) Inspection

Radiographic inspection has the ff advantages over
other NDI methods:
a. The ability to inspect for both internal and external flaws.
b. The ability to inspect covered or hidden parts or structures.
c. The ability to detect significant variations in composition.
d. Provides a permanent recording of raw inspection data.
Types of Radiography
1. Film or Paper Radiography
In film or paper radiography, a two-dimensional latent image
from the projected radiation is produced on a sheet of film or
paper that has been exposed to the unabsorbed radiation
passing through the test piece. This technique requires
subsequent development of the exposed film or paper so that
the latent image becomes visible for viewing.
2. Real-Time Radiography
A two-dimensional image that can be immediately displayed
on a viewing screen or television monitor. This technique
converts unabsorbed radiation into an optical or electronic
signal which can be viewed immediately or can be processed
with electronic or video equipment. The principal advantage of
real-time radiography over film radiography is the opportunity
to manipulate the test piece during radiographic inspection.
3. Computed Tomography (CT)
Unlike film and real-time radiography, CT involves the
generation of cross-sectional views instead of a planar
projection. Computed tomography images are easier to
interpret than radiographs.

FEATI University 1 – 53 FEATI University 1 – 54

Radiographic (X-Ray) Inspection Radiographic (X-Ray) Inspection

CT Scan or Computed
Tomography- A 3D
version of X-ray
Machines
Real Time
Paper Radiography Radiography or X-
or Common X-Ray ray machines
FEATI University 1 – 55 FEATI University 1 – 56
 05/08/2018

Radiographic (X-Ray) Inspection Coin (Metallic Ring) Tap Testing

This inspection method is the simplest way to
detect delamination or separation of bonded
sandwich components.

When a tap testing rod with a spherical tip is gently

tapped against a bonded, solid structure, a clear
ringing sound should be heard. If delamination is
present, a change of a tone into a dull thud will be
heard.

FEATI University 1 – 57 FEATI University 1 – 58

Coin (Metallic Ring) Tap Testing Summary

FEATI University 1 – 59 FEATI University 1 – 60

 05/08/2018

Inspection Basic Inspection Techniques/Practices

Inspections are visual examinations and manual
checks to determine the condition of an aircraft or
component.
An aircraft inspection can range from a casual
walkaround to a detailed inspection involving
complete disassembly and the use of complex
inspection aids.
In order to conduct a thorough inspection, a great
deal of paperwork and/or reference information
must be accessed and studied before actually
proceeding to the aircraft to conduct the inspection.
The aircraft logbooks must be reviewed to provide
background information and a maintenance history
of the particular aircraft.

An inspection system consists of several The appropriate checklist or checklists must be

processes, including reports made by mechanics or utilized to ensure that no items will be forgotten or
the pilot or crew flying an aircraft and regularly overlooked during the inspection.
scheduled inspections of an aircraft.
FEATI University 1 – 61 FEATI University 1 – 62

Aircraft Logs Aircraft Logs

“Aircraft logs,” as used in this handbook, is an
inclusive term which applies to the aircraft logbook
and all supplemental records concerned with the
aircraft.

The aircraft logbook is the record in which all data

concerning the aircraft is recorded.

Information gathered in this log is used to

determine the aircraft condition, date of
inspections, time on airframe, engines and
propellers.

FEATI University 1 – 63 FEATI University 1 – 64

 05/08/2018

Checklists Checklists
Always use a checklist when performing an
inspection. The checklist may be of your own
design, one provided by the manufacturer of the
equipment being inspected, or one obtained from
some other source. The checklist should include
the following:
1. Fuselage and hull group.
2. Cabin and cockpit group.
3. Engine and nacelle group.
4. Landing gear group.
5. Wing and center section.
6. Empennage group.
7. Propeller group.
8. Communication and navigation group.
FEATI University 1 – 65 FEATI University 1 – 66

Publications
Aeronautical publications are the sources of
information for guiding aviation mechanics in the
operation and maintenance of aircraft and related
equipment. The proper use of these publications
will greatly aid in the efficient operation and
maintenance of all aircraft. These includes:
1. Service Bulletin
2. Maintenance Manual
3. Overhaul Manual
4. Structural Repair Manual
5. Illustrated Parts Catalog
6. Airworthiness Directives
7. Type Certificate Data Sheet
FEATI University
Manufacturers’ Service
Bulletins/Instructions
Service bulletins or service instructions are two of
several types of publications issued by airframe,
engine, and component manufacturers.
The bulletins may include: (1) purpose for issuing
the publication, (2) name of the applicable airframe,
engine, or component, (3) detailed instructions for
service, adjustment, modification or inspection, and
source of parts, if required and (4) estimated
number of man-hours required to accomplish the
job.
1 – 67 FEATI University 1 – 68
 05/08/2018

Manufacturers’ Service
Bulletins/Instructions
FEATI University
Maintenance Manual
The manufacturer’s aircraft maintenance manual
contains complete instructions for maintenance of
all systems and components installed in the aircraft.
It contains information for the mechanic who
normally works on components, assemblies, and
systems while they are installed in the aircraft, but
not for the overhaul mechanic.
These normally contains:
1. A description of the systems
2. Lubrication instructions setting forth the
frequency and the lubricants and fluids which
are to be used in the various systems,
3. Pressures and electrical loads applicable to the
various systems,
1 – 69 FEATI University 1 – 70

Maintenance Manual Maintenance Manual

4. Tolerances and adjustments necessary to proper
functioning of the airplane,
5. Methods of leveling, raising, and towing,
6. Methods of balancing control surfaces,
7. Identification of primary and secondary
structures,
8. Frequency and extent of inspections necessary to
the proper operation of the airplane,
9. Special repair methods applicable to the
airplane,
10. Special inspection techniques requiring x-ray,
ultrasonic, or magnetic particle inspection, and A
list of special tools.
FEATI University 1 – 71 FEATI University 1 – 72
 05/08/2018

Overhaul Manual Overhaul Manual

The manufacturer’s overhaul manual contains brief
descriptive information and detailed step by step
instructions covering work normally performed on a
unit that has been removed from the aircraft.

Simple, inexpensive items, such as switches and

relays on which overhaul is uneconomical, are not
covered in the overhaul manual.

FEATI University 1 – 73 FEATI University 1 – 74

Structural Repair Manual Structural Repair Manual

This manual contains the manufacturer’s
information and specific instructions for repairing
primary and secondary structures.

Typical skin, frame, rib, and stringer repairs are

covered in this manual.

Also included are material and fastener

substitutions and special repair techniques.

FEATI University 1 – 75 FEATI University 1 – 76

 05/08/2018

Illustrated Parts Catalog Illustrated Parts Catalog

This catalog presents component breakdowns of
structure and equipment in disassembly sequence.

Also included are exploded views or cutaway

illustrations for all parts and equipment
manufactured by the aircraft manufacturer.

FEATI University 1 – 77 FEATI University 1 – 78

Airworthiness Directives Airworthiness Directives

Airworthiness Directives are Federal Aviation
Regulations and must be complied with unless
specific exemption is granted.

Airworthiness Directives may be divided into two

categories:
(1) those of an emergency nature requiring immediate
compliance upon receipt and
(2) those of a less urgent nature requiring compliance
within a relatively longer period of time.

FEATI University 1 – 79 FEATI University 1 – 80


Type Certificate Data Sheets
The type certificate data sheet (TCDS) describes the
type design and sets forth the limitations prescribed
by the applicable CFR part.
It also includes any other limitations and
information found necessary for type certification of
a particular model aircraft.
FEATI University
Routine/Required Inspections
For the purpose of determining their overall
condition, 14 CFR provides for the inspection of all
civil aircraft at specific intervals, depending
generally upon the type of operations in which they
are engaged.
The pilot in command of a civil aircraft is
responsible for determining whether that aircraft is
in condition for safe flight.
FEATI University
05/08/2018
Type Certificate Data Sheets
1 – 81 FEATI University 1 – 82
Preflight/Postflight Inspections
Pilots are required to follow a checklist contained within
the Pilot’s Operating Handbook (POH) when operating
aircraft.
The first section of a checklist includes a section entitled
Preflight Inspection.
The preflight inspection checklist includes a “walk-around”
section listing items that the pilot is to visually check for
general condition as he or she walks around the airplane.
After each flight, it is recommended that the pilot or
mechanic conduct a postflight inspection to detect any
problems that might require repair or servicing before the
next flight.
1 – 83 FEATI University 1 – 84

Annual/100-Hour Inspections
With some exceptions, all aircraft must have a
complete inspection annually.
Aircraft that are used for commercial purposes and
are likely to be used more frequently than
noncommercial aircraft must have this complete
inspection every 100 hours.
An aircraft may be flown up to 10 hours beyond the
100-hour limit if necessary to fly to a destination
where the inspection is to be conducted.
FEATI University
Progressive Inspections
As alternative to annual an inspection programs
designed to minimize down time may be utilized.
A progressive inspection program allows an aircraft
to be inspected progressively. The scope and detail
of an annual inspection is essentially divided into
segments or phases (typically four to six).
Detailed inspections are typically done once each
cycle. A cycle must be completed within 12 months.
If all required phases are not completed within 12
months, the remaining phase inspections must be
conducted before the end of the 12th month from
when the first phase was completed.
FEATI University
05/08/2018
Annual/100-Hour Inspections
Although the scope and detail of annual and 100-
hour inspections is identical, there are two
significant differences. One difference involves
persons authorized to conduct them.
A certified airframe and powerplant maintenance
technician can conduct a 100- hour inspection,
whereas an annual inspection must be conducted
by a certified airframe and powerplant maintenance
technician with inspection authorization (IA).
1 – 85 FEATI University 1 – 86
Continuous Inspections
Continuous inspection programs are similar to
progressive inspection programs, except that they
apply to large or turbine-powered aircraft and are
therefore more complicated.
Airlines utilize a continuous maintenance program
that includes both routine and detailed inspections.
However, the detailed inspections may include
different levels of detail. Often referred to as
“checks,” the A-check, B-check, C-check, and D-
checks involve increasing levels of detail.
1 – 87 FEATI University 1 – 88
 05/08/2018

Continuous Inspections Altimeter and Transponder Inspections

Aircraft that are operated in controlled airspace
under instrument flight rules (IFR) must have each
altimeter and static system tested in accordance
with procedures described in 14 CFR part 43,
appendix E, within the preceding 24 calendar
months.

Aircraft having an air traffic control (ATC)

transponder must also have each transponder
checked within the preceding 24 months. All these
checks must be conducted by appropriately
certified individuals.

FEATI University 1 – 89 FEATI University 1 – 90

ATA Chapters Special Inspections

During the service life of an aircraft, occasions may
arise when something out of the ordinary care and
use of an aircraft might happen that could possibly
affect its airworthiness.

When these situations are encountered, special

inspection procedures should be followed to
determine if damage to the aircraft structure has
occurred.

FEATI University 1 – 91 FEATI University 1 – 92

 05/08/2018

Special Inspections Special Inspections

Special Inspection may be done due to the following
scenario:
1. Hard or Overweight Landing Inspection
2. Severe Turbulence Inspection/Over “G”
3. Lightning Strike
4. Fire Damage
5. Flood Damage
6. Seaplanes
7. Aerial Application Aircraft

FEATI University 1 – 93 FEATI University 1 – 94

Special Flight Permits References

For an aircraft that does not currently meet FAA. (2008). Aviation Maintenance Technician
airworthiness requirements because of an overdue Handbook – General, Chapter 08. Oklahoma: United
inspection, damage, expired replacement times for States Department of Transportation.
time-limited parts or other reasons, but is capable
of safe flight, a special flight permit may be issued. Download at:
Special flight permits, often referred to as ferry https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks
permits, are issued for the following purposes: _manuals/aircraft/amt_handbook/
• Flying the aircraft to a base where repairs, alterations, or
maintenance are to be performed, or to a point of storage.
• Delivering or exporting the aircraft.
• Production flight testing new production aircraft.
• Evacuating aircraft from areas of impending danger.
• Conducting customer demonstration flights in new
production aircraft that have satisfactorily completed
production flight tests.
FEATI University 1 – 95 FEATI University 1 – 96