Commercial Pilot License (CPL) 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

'Substantial damage' to an aircraft is primarily defined as damage that requires extensive repair or results in a significant impairment of the aircraft's structural integrity or operational capabilities. This includes situations where the aircraft cannot safely continue operation without thorough inspections and repairs.

For instance, examples of substantial damage may involve significant structural issues like a bent fuselage or a damaged wing, which would necessitate comprehensive repairs to restore the aircraft to a safe and airworthy condition. This definition is critical for pilots and maintenance personnel, as it emphasizes the importance of thorough assessment following any incident or accident.

While other types of damage may be visible or even costly, they do not meet the threshold of 'substantial damage' unless they necessitate extensive repair. Thus, the essence of the term revolves around the severity and required extent of the repairs, aligning perfectly with the choice of damage requiring extensive repair.