Which sources are used to verify the airworthiness status at the time of the mishap?

• A. By reviewing weather reports and air traffic logs.
• B. By reviewing maintenance logs, service bulletins, ADs (airworthiness directives), and current certification status.
• C. By interviewing passengers.
• D. By inspecting the flight crew's attire.

Answer: (B)

Verifying airworthiness at the time of the mishap comes from checking records that show the aircraft was maintained and operating under approved standards. The best evidence is found in the maintenance logs, which document what work was performed, when, and whether any discrepancies were corrected. Service bulletins provide manufacturer-recommended changes and checks that may be required for continued airworthiness. Airworthiness directives are mandatory directives from the aviation authority that must be complied with, directing specific actions or inspections. The current certification status confirms the aircraft holds a valid airworthiness certificate and registration and that there are no open items preventing airworthiness. Taken together, these sources prove whether the aircraft met regulatory requirements at the moment of the event. Weather reports and air traffic logs relate to flight conditions and operations, not the aircraft’s airworthiness; interviewing passengers or assessing crew attire does not inform the regulatory or mechanical status of the aircraft.