What ratings is an individual required to have to conduct a complete 100-hour inspection on an aircraft and approve it for return to service?

• A. an airframe and powerplant rating
• B. a structural repair rating
• C. an avionics rating
• D. a maintenance technician certificate

Answer: (A)

To perform and sign off a complete 100-hour inspection, the person must hold certificated mechanic ratings that cover both the airframe and the powerplant. This inspection is thorough and touches the structure, systems, and the engine/propulsion areas, so authority to work on and approve items in both domains is required. An avionics rating wouldn’t authorize engine or airframe work, a structural repair rating is limited to structural repairs only, and a maintenance technician certificate by itself isn’t a rating that allows releasing an aircraft after inspection. Therefore, the needed qualification is an airframe and powerplant rating.