According to the regulations, who is responsible for ensuring an aircraft is airworthy?

The pilot in command is responsible for ensuring that the aircraft is airworthy before flight. This responsibility encompasses verifying that all necessary pre-flight checks have been completed, ensuring compliance with all airworthiness directives, and confirming that the aircraft is in a condition for safe operation. Regulations stipulate that it is the pilot's duty to assess factors such as the aircraft's maintenance status, load, and the validity of necessary documentation, including registrations and inspections.

While other parties, such as the aircraft manufacturer and the owner, contribute to the aircraft's overall airworthiness through maintenance and compliance with safety standards, the pilot in command bears the final responsibility at the time of flight. Ground crew personnel assist with pre-flight inspections and operations but do not hold the ultimate accountability for airworthiness. Therefore, the pilot’s comprehensive understanding of the aircraft’s operational condition is critical for ensuring safety in the air.