← Back to Aviation Glossary
Airworthiness
The condition in which an aircraft conforms to its type design and is in a condition for safe flight. Under 14 CFR 91.7, no person may operate a civil aircraft unless it is airworthy, and the pilot in command is responsible for that determination before each flight.
Want to go beyond the definition? This term is covered in depth in AviatorPro's Private Pilot License ground school.
Learn more in Private Pilot License →Related Terms
- Airworthiness CertificateThe FAA document that authorizes an aircraft to operate in the standard or special category for which it was certificated. Under 14 CFR 91.203, an appropriate and current airworthiness certificate must be onboard; it remains valid only while the aircraft is maintained and inspected as required.
- AltimeterA pressure instrument that displays altitude by sensing static air pressure. Pilots set the local altimeter setting (from ATIS, AWOS, ASOS, or ATC) so indicated altitude matches the elevation of the reporting station when on the ground.
- Altimeter and Static System CheckAn inspection and test of the aircraft altimeter and static pressure system required by 14 CFR 91.411 within the preceding 24 calendar months for IFR operations in controlled airspace. It is the second "A" in the AV1ATE inspection mnemonic and is often kept current on training aircraft even for VFR use.
- AME (Aviation Medical Examiner)A physician designated by the FAA to perform medical examinations for pilot certificates. AMEs evaluate vision, hearing, cardiovascular health, and general fitness to determine if applicants meet medical standards.