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Annual Inspection
A thorough aircraft inspection required at least once every 12 calendar months under 14 CFR 91.409(a). No person may operate an aircraft unless it has had an annual inspection within the preceding 12 calendar months. An annual also satisfies the 100-hour inspection requirement when applicable.
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Learn more in Private Pilot License →Related Terms
- Anti-Collision LightsAircraft lighting that increases conspicuity, typically a rotating beacon and/or strobe system. Under 14 CFR 91.205(c), an approved anti-collision light system is required for night VFR in addition to the day VFR equipment list.
- Approach PlateThe published instrument approach procedure chart that depicts the lateral and vertical path, fixes, altitudes, minima, and missed-approach instructions for an airport approach. Instrument pilots brief the approach plate before flying an IFR arrival or practice approach.
- Area of OperationA major skill category in the Airman Certification Standards (ACS), such as preflight preparation, takeoffs and landings, or navigation. Each area of operation contains tasks the examiner may evaluate on the practical test, with knowledge, risk management, and skill elements.
- ARROWA student-pilot mnemonic for the documents that must be aboard an aircraft: Airworthiness certificate, Registration certificate, Radio station license (when required for international operations), Operating limitations (POH/AFM), and Weight and balance data. ARROW pairs with AV1ATE, which covers required inspections.