FAA Military Competency Practice Exam

What is the status of an aircraft regarding Airworthiness Directives (ADs) if it does not comply?

1. The aircraft is considered airworthy

2. The aircraft is considered non-airworthy

3. The aircraft can be operated with limitations

4. The aircraft can continue to fly under specific exemptions

The correct answer is: The aircraft is considered non-airworthy

If an aircraft does not comply with Airworthiness Directives (ADs), it is classified as non-airworthy. Airworthiness Directives are legally enforceable regulations issued by the FAA to address safety issues and ensure that aircraft continue to operate safely. Compliance with these directives is mandatory for maintaining an aircraft's airworthiness status. When an aircraft is found to be non-compliant with applicable ADs, it indicates that the aircraft may no longer meet the safety standards required for operation. This non-compliance could stem from a failure to rectify identified safety concerns or from the aircraft lacking modifications necessary to comply with the directive. Therefore, until compliance is achieved, the aircraft cannot be considered airworthy, which directly impacts its operational status and legality to fly. In contrast, other answers may suggest that the aircraft could still operate under certain conditions, but this is not the case if it is not compliant with ADs. Only after addressing the issues outlined in the AD can the aircraft regain its airworthy status.