In Spare Aircraft Procedures, what does IP check?

• A. IP checks AFTO forms & 781, exterior inspection
• B. Pilot checks AFTO forms & 781
• C. No inspection required
• D. AFTO forms reviewed only on flight

Answer: (A)

The main idea is what the instructor pilot is responsible for before flying a spare aircraft. In Spare Aircraft Procedures, the IP must verify the maintenance paperwork and the aircraft’s exterior condition to ensure airworthiness. AFTO forms and the 781 maintenance record show the aircraft’s maintenance history, open discrepancies, and any authorized deferrals, so the IP checks them to confirm everything is current, properly annotated, and that there’s no unresolved issue preventing flight. At the same time, the IP performs an exterior inspection to spot obvious issues like damage, fluid leaks, loose panels, or missing components that could impact safety. This combination ensures both the paperwork reflects the true status of the aircraft and the physical condition is sound before flight. The pilot isn’t the primary person responsible for reviewing these maintenance records, and preflight checks require inspecting the aircraft and paperwork—not doing so only after flight.