Can an aircraft be flown if it has inoperative equipment?

The situation regarding inoperative equipment hinges on the regulations governing flight operations, particularly those pertaining to VFR (Visual Flight Rules) and the equipment required for safe operation. Under FAA regulations, an aircraft can be flown with inoperative equipment if that equipment is not considered essential for the type of flight operation being conducted.

For VFR flight operations, there are specific equipment requirements outlined in FAR 91.205. If the inoperative equipment does not fall within the mandatory list for VFR flight—meaning its absence does not impede the safe operation of the aircraft—then the pilot may proceed with the flight. This allows for some flexibility in managing aircraft systems, provided the pilot assesses the situation and determines that flying without that equipment will not compromise safety.

Other answer choices suggest conditions that are not aligned with the allowable regulations; for instance, indicating that no flight can be conducted with inoperative equipment at all, disregarding the context of the flight type and applicable requirements. Thus, the correct answer reflects the regulatory allowance for operating an aircraft with certain inoperative equipment as long as safety is maintained and regulations are adhered to.