Which items are commonly checked during a preflight inspection?

• A. Pilot license, wind speed, seating arrangement.
• B. Exterior surfaces, flight controls, fuel and oil levels.
• C. Nav charts, radio frequencies, cabin temperature.
• D. Winglets, tail numbers, beverage service.

Answer: (B)

Preflight checks focus on items that directly confirm the aircraft is airworthy and ready to fly. Exterior surfaces must be inspected for damage, corrosion, and loose attachments, because any structural issue or compromised skin can affect safety. Flight controls need to move freely through their full range and remain properly aligned, ensuring there’s no binding or adverse balance that could hinder control in flight. Fuel and oil levels are checked to ensure there’s enough usable fuel for the planned flight with reserves and to spot leaks or contamination that could lead to engine problems. Together, these checks verify the aircraft’s condition and readiness before takeoff.

The other options mix in documents and planning items (like a pilot’s license, wind information, nav charts, and radio frequencies), as well as service items (cabin temperature, beverage service) or cosmetic/identification items (winglets, tail numbers). While some of those things are part of operating a flight, they aren’t the core physical checks that establish airworthiness during a preflight.