When is an acceptance inspection conducted?

An acceptance inspection is specifically conducted when accepting a newly assigned aircraft to ensure that it meets all operational and safety standards before being put into service. This process includes a thorough examination of the aircraft's condition, systems, and compliance with maintenance standards. The intention is to verify that the aircraft is ready for safe operation and to assess any outstanding maintenance needs or issues that may have arisen during its prior service.

While major repairs and routine maintenance inspections are crucial for aircraft safety and performance, they fall under different categories of inspections and are not termed acceptance inspections. Similarly, conducting an inspection after every flight is part of a different protocol focused on immediate safety checks rather than the comprehensive acceptance of a new asset.