The Certificate of Airworthiness remains valid as long as which condition is met?

The Certificate of Airworthiness is a critical document for any aircraft, indicating that it meets the required safety standards set by aviation authorities. The key condition for the certificate to remain valid is that the aircraft must undergo regular maintenance checks to ensure its airworthiness.

Completion of a 100-hour inspection within the previous 12 months is significant because these inspections are designed to identify any mechanical or structural issues that could affect the safety of the aircraft. This routine maintenance ensures that the aircraft is in compliance with the airworthiness standards and capable of safe operation. Failure to complete required inspections can lead to the invalidation of the Certificate of Airworthiness, as it indicates that the aircraft may not be properly maintained.

In contrast, the other conditions mentioned—such as regular operation, accident history, or cosmetic changes like repainting—do not have a direct impact on the airworthiness certification. While these factors might affect operational efficiency or appearance, they do not substitute for the mandatory inspections that verify an aircraft's safety and performance capabilities. Therefore, maintaining the schedule for 100-hour inspections is vital for keeping the Certificate of Airworthiness valid.