How is airworthiness defined?

Airworthiness is fundamentally defined by the condition of an aircraft being in a state that is deemed safe for flight operations. This involves a combination of aspects, including proper design and construction to ensure the aircraft will perform as intended under expected operational conditions.

The concept of airworthiness encompasses more than just the physical state of the aircraft; it also refers to the reliability of the parts and systems, the adherence to regulatory standards, and the assurance that the aircraft can safely carry out its intended function. Therefore, stating that it is of proper design and construction and safe for navigation captures the essence of airworthiness—the aircraft must be capable of safe operation before it is cleared for flight.

While other choices mention inspections and technical surveys, these processes are part of maintaining airworthiness rather than defining it. An aircraft may have been inspected or passed certain safety requirements, but without the foundational criteria of proper design and construction, it cannot be considered airworthy. Thus, the correct definition emphasizes the overall safety and suitability of the aircraft for navigation.