PLT446: Preventive Maintenance by Pilots
What code PLT446 covers, why the FAA tests it, and how to study Preventive Maintenance by Pilots before your checkride.
Recall regulations - preventative maintenance
What this means for your checkride
Except for holders of a sport pilot certificate, the holder of a pilot certificate issued under Part 61 may perform preventive maintenance on any aircraft owned or operated by that pilot, provided the aircraft is not used under Part 121, 129, or 135. Preventive maintenance is limited to the simple or minor tasks listed in the regulations. A person holding at least a private pilot certificate may then approve that aircraft for return to service after performing such preventive maintenance.
Private pilots often want to do minor work themselves, so applicants must know the privilege exists and its limits.
This privilege is limited to preventive maintenance on the pilot's own aircraft not used in commercial operations; it does not extend to major repairs or aircraft flown under Part 135.
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.