Airman Certification Standards
ACS CA.II.A
Preflight Assessment
Knowledge
Pilot self-assessment.
Determining that the airplane to be used is appropriate and airworthy.
Airplane 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.
Risk Management
Environment (e.g., weather, airports, airspace, terrain, obstacles).
External pressures.
Aviation security concerns.
Skill
Inspect the airplane with reference to an appropriate checklist.
Verify the airplane is in condition for safe flight and conforms to its type design.
Perform self-assessment.
Continue to assess the environment for safe flight.
Retrieved from ecfr.gov on July 17, 2026.