When an aircraft is sold, which records must accompany the aircraft?

• A. The pilot's logbook.
• B. The maintenance manual.
• C. The original purchase receipt.
• D. The maintenance records including the current status of applicable Airworthiness Directives.

Answer: (D)

The key idea is that ownership transfer must include the aircraft’s maintenance history and the current status of all applicable Airworthiness Directives. These records show what maintenance has been done, what inspections were completed, what parts were replaced, and when, along with which ADs have been complied with and which may still require action. For the new owner, this information is essential to assess ongoing airworthiness and plan future maintenance, ensuring that mandatory directives are followed.

Other items don’t carry the same implications for airworthiness. A pilot’s logbook is personal to the pilot and not part of the aircraft’s compliance record. The maintenance manual is a reference document, not a record of what has been done or what needs to be done. The original purchase receipt shows a purchase transaction, not the aircraft’s current condition or compliance status.