Free A&P General Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers

Question 1: What is the minimum age requirement to obtain an FAA A&P certificate?

16 years
18 years (Correct answer)
21 years
No age requirement

Correct answer: 18 years

To obtain an FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanic certificate, an individual must meet several requirements, including a minimum age. The Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs) specify that an applicant must be at least 18 years old. This age requirement ensures a certain level of maturity and responsibility for individuals performing critical aircraft maintenance tasks.

Question 2: Which FAA document must be completed after performing a major repair?

FAA Form 337 (Correct answer)
FAA Form 8130
FAA Form 8500
FAA Form 8610

Correct answer: FAA Form 337

FAA Form 337, titled 'Major Repair and Alteration,' is the mandatory document that must be completed and submitted to the FAA after any major repair or alteration is performed on an aircraft. This form provides a detailed record of the work accomplished, the materials used, and the approved data referenced. It ensures compliance with airworthiness regulations and maintains a complete history of significant aircraft modifications.

Question 3: What is the primary purpose of an Airworthiness Directive (AD)?

To suggest optional upgrades
To mandate safety-related repairs or inspections (Correct answer)
To announce new aircraft models
To schedule routine maintenance

Correct answer: To mandate safety-related repairs or inspections

An Airworthiness Directive (AD) is a legally binding regulation issued by the FAA (or equivalent authority) to address unsafe conditions found in aircraft, engines, propellers, or appliances. ADs mandate specific inspections, repairs, or modifications that must be accomplished within a specified timeframe to ensure the continued airworthiness and safety of the affected aircraft. Compliance with ADs is mandatory for all aircraft owners and operators.

Question 4: Which tool would you use to measure the inside diameter of a cylinder bore?

Telescoping gauge (Correct answer)
Torque wrench
Feeler gauge
Dial indicator

Correct answer: Telescoping gauge

A telescoping gauge is the appropriate tool for measuring the inside diameter of a cylinder bore. It features spring-loaded plungers that expand to contact the internal surfaces, then lock in place. The gauge is then removed, and its expanded dimension is accurately measured with an outside micrometer, allowing for precise internal measurements.

Question 5: What type of fire extinguisher is required in aircraft hangars?

Class A only
Class B and C (Correct answer)
Class D only
Water-based only

Correct answer: Class B and C

Aircraft hangars typically contain flammable liquids like aviation fuel and lubricants (Class B fires) and various electrical equipment (Class C fires). Therefore, fire extinguishers rated for Class B and C fires are required to effectively combat these common hazards. This ensures comprehensive fire safety for the facility and its contents.

Question 6: How often must an Annual Inspection be performed on a certificated aircraft?

Every 6 months
Every 100 flight hours
Every 12 calendar months (Correct answer)
Every 24 months

Correct answer: Every 12 calendar months

According to FAA regulations (14 CFR Part 91.409), a certificated aircraft operating under Part 91 must undergo an Annual Inspection every 12 calendar months. This inspection must be performed by an A&P mechanic holding an Inspection Authorization (IA). This ensures the aircraft remains airworthy and safe for flight operations.

Question 7: What is the purpose of a service bulletin (SB) issued by an aircraft manufacturer?

To advertise new products
To recommend voluntary maintenance actions (Correct answer)
To replace FAA regulations
To announce price changes

Correct answer: To recommend voluntary maintenance actions

A service bulletin (SB) is issued by an aircraft manufacturer to recommend voluntary maintenance actions, inspections, or modifications to aircraft owners and operators. While not legally mandatory like an Airworthiness Directive (AD), SBs often address potential safety enhancements, performance improvements, or component life extensions, and are typically incorporated into maintenance programs.

Question 8: Which FAA regulation specifies certification requirements for A&P mechanics?

14 CFR Part 21
14 CFR Part 43
14 CFR Part 65 (Correct answer)
14 CFR Part 91

Correct answer: 14 CFR Part 65

14 CFR Part 65, titled 'Certification: Airmen Other Than Flight Crewmembers,' specifically outlines the requirements for obtaining and maintaining various airman certificates, including those for Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanics. This regulation details the eligibility, knowledge, practical, and experience requirements necessary for certification in these roles.

Question 9: What is the first step when troubleshooting an aircraft system?

Replace suspected components
Consult the aircraft maintenance manual (Correct answer)
Test-fly the aircraft
Disconnect the battery

Correct answer: Consult the aircraft maintenance manual

The first and most critical step when troubleshooting an aircraft system is always to consult the aircraft maintenance manual (AMM) or relevant technical documentation. These manuals provide detailed schematics, troubleshooting charts, operational limits, and specific procedures. Following these guidelines is essential for accurately diagnosing and safely resolving issues.

Free A&P General Questions and Answers

What is the minimum age requirement to obtain an FAA A&P certificate?