Who holds the primary responsibility for maintaining an aircraft in an airworthy condition?

The primary responsibility for maintaining an aircraft in an airworthy condition rests with the owner or operator of the aircraft. This duty encompasses ensuring that all maintenance, repairs, and alterations are performed in accordance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and manufacturers’ guidelines. The owner/operator must ensure that all required inspections are completed, and any issues are addressed promptly to maintain the aircraft's airworthiness status.

While mechanics play a vital role in performing maintenance and repairs, it is ultimately the owner or operator who is legally responsible for the overall condition of the aircraft. Similarly, the FAA oversees and regulates aviation safety and aircraft standards, but it does not directly maintain aircraft. The pilot in command is responsible for the safety of the flight and ensuring that the aircraft is in a condition for safe operation during flight, but they do not bear the primary responsibility for the aircraft's ongoing airworthiness maintenance. Therefore, the owner or operator holds the authoritative responsibility for maintaining the aircraft in an airworthy condition.