ASI Cheat Sheet 2026

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

1. What is the purpose of a torque wrench when performing aircraft maintenance? → Apply a specified amount of tightening force
2. A repair station's operations specifications (OpSpecs) are issued under which regulation? → 14 CFR Part 145
3. Under 14 CFR Part 65.81, a mechanic certificate with an Airframe rating authorizes work on: → Aircraft structures, systems, and components except powerplant
4. Which phase of the Threat and Error Management (TEM) framework involves anticipating hazards before they lead to crew errors? → Threat management
5. Under 14 CFR §91.409, a progressive inspection program, once established, requires inspections at intervals not to exceed: → As specified in the approved program
6. Which of the following is considered a safety assurance activity in SMS? → Monitoring the effectiveness of safety procedures
7. Which concept in SMS refers to the conditions in the work environment that predispose personnel to commit errors? → Latent conditions
8. Under FAA SMS, which document typically serves as the foundation for an organization's SMS structure and commitment? → Safety Management System Manual (SMSM)
9. Under 14 CFR Part 43, which of the following is classified as a major alteration? → Installing a non-approved navigation system
10. What is the purpose of generating an aviation inspection report? → To document the condition of the aircraft and ensure corrective actions
11. When assessing risk in an SMS, 'severity' refers to: → The worst credible consequence if a hazard results in an accident
12. Under 14 CFR Part 91, what is the minimum safe altitude when flying over a congested area? → 1,000 feet above the highest obstacle within 2,000 feet
13. What is the purpose of an SMS 'accountable executive'? → To serve as the final authority responsible for safety performance of the organization
14. What role do checklists play in aircraft inspections? → They ensure all necessary components are thoroughly checked
15. What is the primary purpose of a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) in an avionics installation? → To certify a change to the type design of an existing certificated aircraft
16. During an ASI surveillance visit, a mechanic is observed using an unapproved solvent to clean fuel system components. What is the immediate concern? → Potential chemical incompatibility causing fuel system degradation or fire hazard
17. A type certificate (TC) is issued to certify that a particular aircraft design meets which standard? → Applicable airworthiness standards
18. Under 14 CFR Part 91.411, altimeter systems and altitude reporting equipment must be tested and inspected within the preceding: → 24 calendar months
19. Which type of ASI surveillance activity involves observing and evaluating flight crew performance during normal revenue operations from the cockpit jump seat? → En route inspection
20. An ADS-B Out system fails the required self-test during preflight. Under 14 CFR 91.227, the aircraft may: → Not operate in airspace where ADS-B Out is required without an ATC waiver
21. Under 14 CFR Part 121, which document authorizes an air carrier to defer inoperative equipment and continue flight operations under specified conditions? → Minimum Equipment List (MEL)
22. In the context of avionics certification, what does DO-178C address? → Software considerations in airborne systems and equipment certification
23. In an SMS safety case, what must be demonstrated to justify accepting residual risk? → That the risk is As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP)
24. Which SMS tool is specifically designed to proactively identify hazards by examining what could go wrong before a process is implemented? → Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA)
25. In CRM terminology, what does 'authority gradient' refer to? → The perceived difference in authority between crew members that can inhibit communication
26. What does the acronym ALARP mean in aviation safety risk management? → As Low As Reasonably Practicable
27. When an ASI discovers an apparent violation during a ramp inspection, what is the FIRST action required before initiating enforcement? → Document findings and gather all relevant evidence
28. Under 14 CFR Part 121.709, an Aviation Safety Inspector's authority to inspect a Part 121 air carrier operation extends to: → Any Part 121 aircraft at any time or place
29. What is the role of a safety inspector during an aircraft inspection? → To ensure all safety protocols are followed during the inspection
30. What does a steady red light gun signal from ATC indicate to an aircraft on the ground? → Stop immediately