Airman Certification Standards
ACS AA.II.A
Preflight Assessment
Knowledge
Pilot self-assessment.
Determining that the aircraft to be used is appropriate, airworthy, and in a condition for safe flight by locating and explaining related documents such as:
a. Airworthiness and registration certificates
b. Operating limitations, handbooks, and manuals
c. Minimum Equipment List (MEL) and Configuration Deviation List (CDL), Kinds of Operations Equipment Lists (KOEL)
d. Weight and balance data
e. Required inspections or tests and appropriate records and documentation (e.g., dispatch release) as applicable to the proposed flight or operation
Preventive maintenance that can be performed by the pilot or other designated crewmember.
Aircraft preflight inspection, including:
a. Which items should be inspected
b. The reasons for checking each item
c. How to detect possible defects
d. The associated regulations
Environmental factors, including weather, terrain, route selection, and obstructions.
Requirements for current and appropriate navigation data.
Operations specifications, management specifications, or letters of authorization applying to a particular aircraft and operation, if applicable.
Risk Management
Human performance factors.
Inoperative equipment discovered prior to flight.
Environment (e.g., weather, airports, airspace, terrain, obstacles).
External pressures.
Aviation security concerns. 13
Skill
Inspect the aircraft in accordance with an appropriate checklist demonstrating proper operation of applicable airplane systems. Coordinate checklist with crew, if appropriate.
Coordinate with ground crew and ensure adequate clearance prior to moving doors, hatches, flight control surfaces, etc.
Document any discrepancies found; take corrective action and acknowledge limitations imposed by MEL/CDL items, if applicable.
Determine if the aircraft is airworthy and in condition for safe flight.
Identify and comply with operations specifications as required.
Assess factors related to the environment (weather, airports, terrain, airspace).
Ensure the airplane and surfaces are free of ice, snow, and frost. If icing conditions are present, demonstrate satisfactory knowledge of deicing procedures.
Retrieved from ecfr.gov on July 17, 2026.