Which term encompasses the verified checks performed to confirm an aircraft is airworthy prior to departure?

• A. Ground Run
• B. Preflight Inspection
• C. Aircraft Certification
• D. Flight Plan Review

Answer: (B)

Preflight inspection is the set of checks performed to confirm an aircraft is airworthy before departure. It involves a careful exterior walk-around and cockpit/cabin checks to verify that controls move freely, surfaces and landing gear are intact, systems are operating within normal ranges, fuel and oil levels are adequate, and no obvious safety hazards or missing equipment are present. It also ensures required documents and certifications are on board.

This is different from a ground run, which is a brief engine/systems check done on the ground to verify startup and basic operation, not a full airworthiness assessment for departure. It also isn’t about the formal aircraft certification process, which is the regulatory approval of a design as airworthy—something established for the aircraft type, not performed before every flight. And it isn’t a flight plan review, which focuses on routing, weather, and operational planning rather than the aircraft’s airworthiness.