Who is authorized to perform a 100-hour inspection on aircraft operated for hire?

To perform a 100-hour inspection on aircraft operated for hire, the individual must be an appropriately rated mechanic who is certified to perform such inspections. This certification comes from the FAA, ensuring that the mechanic has the necessary training and knowledge to conduct inspections that maintain the airworthiness and safety of the aircraft.

A 100-hour inspection is a critical maintenance check required for aircraft that are used for hire, and it must be performed in accordance with FAA regulations. Since these inspections involve technical knowledge and adherence to safety standards, they need to be conducted by licensed professionals with the requisite skills and repair authority. Upon completing the inspection, these mechanics can approve the aircraft for return to service, ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

Other choices are not suitable for this specific task due to the regulatory requirements set by the FAA. Pilots, regardless of their licensing level, do not have the authority to perform maintenance inspections without the appropriate mechanic certification, and the aircraft owner, while invested in the aircraft's maintenance, does not possess the necessary technical qualifications unless they are also a certified mechanic. FAA inspectors can oversee and enforce regulations but are not typically the ones performing the inspections themselves on a routine basis.