PLT378: Airworthiness Directives
What code PLT378 covers, why the FAA tests it, and how to study Airworthiness Directives before your checkride.
Recall regulations - Airworthiness Directives
What this means for your checkride
Airworthiness Directives (ADs) are legally binding orders to correct an unsafe condition in a type of aircraft, engine, propeller, or appliance. The registered owner or operator is responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable ADs, one-time or recurring, and for recording that compliance in the maintenance records.
An uncomplied AD makes the aircraft unairworthy, so the FAA tests who is responsible and the binding nature of ADs.
Pilots assume the mechanic tracks all ADs. The owner or operator is legally responsible for AD compliance, and the pilot in command must ensure the aircraft is airworthy before flight.
Where to study it
A code on your test report is an area of deficiency. An authorized instructor must review it with you and endorse that review before you take the practical test, and the examiner may revisit it during the oral. Study it until you can explain it out loud, not just recognize the answer.