Which inspections is a mechanic allowed to perform and approve for return to service?

A mechanic can perform and approve for return to service a 100-hour inspection and progressive inspections under specified conditions due to the regulations set forth by the FAA. The 100-hour inspection is specifically designed for aircraft that are used for hire and is a critical requirement that ensures the aircraft is safe to fly after a certain number of operational hours.

Progressive inspections are a series of smaller inspections spread over a period of time, rather than one large inspection, allowing for more frequent checks on aircraft components. When conducted under specified conditions, this enables mechanics to maintain an aircraft’s airworthiness and ensure it meets safety standards more regularly without requiring the aircraft to be taken out of service for long periods.

Annual inspections, while crucial, require an A&P mechanic with an Inspection Authorization (IA) to perform and approve them. Routine checks, on the other hand, typically involve visual checks or minor maintenance that does not require approval for return to service by a mechanic.

Thus, the scope of a mechanic's authority to perform inspections encompasses both the 100-hour and progressive inspections as laid out by FAA regulations, validating that the answer highlighting these capabilities is indeed correct.