Which type of inspection is required before an aircraft returns to service after maintenance?

The type of inspection required before an aircraft returns to service after maintenance is the Return to Service Inspection. This inspection is critical as it ensures that any maintenance or repairs performed on the aircraft have been completed safely and in accordance with applicable regulations and standards. It includes a thorough review of the work done, verification of proper function, and confirmation that the aircraft meets all safety requirements before it is deemed fit for operation again.

This inspection often involves checking all critical systems and components affected by the recent maintenance to ensure they are functioning correctly and that no new issues have arisen during the work. Proper documentation of the inspection findings is also essential, as it provides a record that the aircraft is safe for flight.

While other inspections like pre-flight, routine maintenance, and daily inspections are vital for ongoing safety and operational readiness, they do not specifically address the necessity of validating that maintenance was appropriately completed before the aircraft can be returned to service. Each of these inspections serves different purposes and maintains safety at different stages of an aircraft's operation, but the Return to Service Inspection is uniquely focused on the consequences and safety implications of recent maintenance activities.