Maintenance Checklist Essentials

Pre-Flight Inspection Checklist for Insurance and Safety

A thorough pre-flight inspection is your first line of defense against mid-flight mechanical issues and liability exposure. Insurers often assess whether pre-flight procedures were properly followed when evaluating claims. Incorporating these items into your checklist not only ensures safety but supports insurance compliance.

Fuel Quality & Quantity: Check for contaminants and confirm sufficient fuel for planned operations.
Control Surface Movement: Verify freedom of movement and absence of obstructions.
Tires & Landing Gear: Inspect for wear, pressure, and hydraulic fluid leaks.
Lights and Electrical Systems: Confirm navigation, landing, and strobe lights function properly.
Logbook & Documents: Ensure all required documentation is current and onboard.

Post-Flight Maintenance Tasks Every Owner Should Know

Proper post-flight care extends aircraft longevity and reduces the likelihood of insurance claims due to progressive wear or neglect. Make these actions part of your post-landing routine.

Visual Exterior Check: Look for bird strikes, dents, or fresh leaks.
Oil and Fluid Levels: Monitor engine oil and hydraulic fluid for unusual changes.
Clean Windscreens and Leading Edges: Insect residue and dirt can affect performance and damage surfaces.
Battery Disconnect or Maintenance Charging: Prevents discharge during downtime.
Secure Aircraft: Tie down, chock, or hangar the aircraft depending on expected weather conditions.

Seasonal Maintenance Checklist for Aircraft Owners

Changing weather patterns can introduce new operational and mechanical risks. Use a seasonal checklist to protect your aircraft from preventable damage and ensure insurance compliance year-round.

Winter: Inspect pitot heat, deicing systems, and engine preheat devices; check for hangar heating safety.
Spring: Look for signs of rodent damage or corrosion from winter storage; refresh emergency kits.
Summer: Monitor tire pressure and fluid levels more frequently due to heat expansion.
Fall: Inspect seals, fuel vents, and cabin heating systems; prepare for winter weather transitions.

Checklist for Long-Term Storage and Preservation of Aircraft

Whether storing your aircraft for a few months or a full season, proper preservation is essential to protect against insurance-complicating damage. This checklist supports FAA recommendations and helps avoid costly restoration.

Drain or Stabilize Fuel: Prevent gum formation and corrosion in fuel systems.
Desiccant Plugs and Covers: Install to minimize moisture intrusion in engines and avionics.
Lubricate Moving Parts: Coat hinges, cables, and control linkages to prevent rust.
Disconnect or Remove Batteries: Avoid discharge or sulfation during downtime.
Cover and Secure: Use protective covers for air intakes, vents, and cockpit glass.

Preparing Your Aircraft for Annual FAA Inspections

The FAA requires annual inspections to verify airworthiness—and insurance companies expect proof of compliance. Use this checklist to ensure your aircraft is ready for thorough review and to avoid delays or insurance complications.

Maintenance Records: Ensure logbooks and documentation are complete and organized.
Service Bulletins and ADs: Verify all applicable directives have been addressed.
Aircraft Cleanliness: Clean exterior and interior for ease of inspection and professionalism.
Functional Checks: Test avionics, emergency equipment, and lighting systems.
Owner-Supplied Parts: Prepare any parts or documentation needed for mechanic reference.