4 Aircraft Inspector Interview Questions and Answers

Introduction

Junior aircraft inspectors must be able to perform routine but thorough inspections according to aircraft maintenance manuals and local regulations (e.g., CAAS). This verifies technical knowledge, attention to detail, and correct use of inspection procedures for common commercial airframes like the A320, frequently operated by carriers in Singapore such as Singapore Airlines.

How to answer

• Start by stating the governing documents you would follow (aircraft maintenance manual (AMM), structural repair manual (SRM), operator's maintenance program, and CAAS regulations).
• Describe preparatory steps: secure the aircraft (chocks, safety pins if applicable), obtain relevant logbook/maintenance records, ensure required tooling and PPE, and confirm any open maintenance items.
• Explain a systematic inspection sequence for the lower fuselage: visual check for dents, corrosion, paint cracks, skin wrinkling, and fastener security along stringers and rivet rows.
• Detail landing gear inspection points: oleo strut condition and extension, hydraulic lines for leaks, torque links/bushings, actuator attachments, wheel and brake condition, tire wear and pressure checks, and condition of gear doors.
• Mention use of specific inspection techniques and aids: flashlight, mirror, borescope for hard-to-see areas, torque wrench for torque-checked fasteners, and non-destructive inspection (NDI) triggers (dye-penetrant or eddy current) if a crack/corrosion is suspected.
• State how you would document findings in the technical log and defect tracking system, tag out any unairworthy items, and notify the appropriate certifying staff or shift supervisor.
• Conclude by describing follow-up actions: immediate safety-of-flight items vs. scheduled rectification, coordination with mechanics/engineers (e.g., at ST Engineering or airline MRO), and updating records in compliance with CAAS requirements.

What not to say

• Skipping references to the AMM or regulatory requirements and relying only on memory or habit.
• Saying you would make repairs yourself beyond authorized scope instead of reporting and routing to licensed maintenance staff.
• Failing to mention documentation and regulatory compliance (CAAS) after finding defects.
• Neglecting safety precautions (e.g., not securing aircraft or using PPE).

Example answer

“First, I would consult the A320 AMM and the operator's daily checklist, and confirm any MEL/defers in the technical log. I'd secure the aircraft with chocks and ensure power/state is safe for inspection. For the lower fuselage I would perform a systematic visual check along each panel and fastener line using a flashlight and mirror, looking for dents, corrosion, or loose rivets. For the landing gear, I'd inspect the oleo for proper extension, check hydraulic lines for seepage, verify torque link integrity, examine tires for cuts/wear and confirm brake pack condition. If I found paint bubbling around a fastener or suspected cracking, I'd stop and request an NDI (dye-penetrant) per SRM before signing anything off. All findings would be recorded in the tech log and communicated to the licensed engineer and shift lead; safety-of-flight items would be grounded and rectified according to the operator's procedures and CAAS guidance.”

Introduction

This situational question assesses judgement, escalation, safety awareness, and knowledge of defect classification and reporting. For inspectors in Singapore working at busy hubs like Changi, correct triage and communication prevent safety risks and operational disruption.

How to answer

• Begin by classifying the finding: indicate how you determine whether it is safety-of-flight, major, or minor using AMM/SRM and the operator's damage tolerance criteria.
• Detail immediate steps: secure the area so the crack won't be worsened (e.g., avoid pressurization if relevant), take photos and measurements, and mark the crack location.
• Explain escalation: notify the shift supervisor/lead inspector and the licensed certifying engineer, and inform operations/dispatcher if traffic will be affected.
• Describe documentation: record the defect precisely in the technical log and defect-tracking system, reference the repair history, and flag any recent repair paperwork for review.
• Discuss decision-making: if the crack falls under allowable limits and has clear temporary repair instructions or an approved alternate procedure, explain how you'd follow them; otherwise, explain grounding and arranging for a proper repair/NDI.
• Mention coordination with stakeholders: maintenance provider (e.g., ST Engineering), engineering authority, and CAAS if required for reporting.
• Conclude with follow-up: ensure the defect is tracked to closure, update records, and participate in any root-cause analysis if the crack is linked to repair quality or process gaps.

What not to say

• Minimizing or ignoring the crack because it seems small without following procedures.
• Attempting to make repairs or modifications outside your authorization.
• Failing to document or to escalate to a certifying engineer and operations.
• Overreacting by recommending unnecessary heavy maintenance without proper assessment.

Example answer

“I would first compare the crack to SRM/AMM damage limits and check the recent repair records. While it looks hairline and non-critical, I would mark it, photograph and measure it, and immediately notify the shift lead and a licensed certifying engineer. I would log the defect and, pending their advice, avoid pressurizing the aircraft. If engineering confirms it's within allowable limits with a temporary repair approved in the AMM, I would follow that and schedule proper rectification at the next maintenance opportunity. If not, I would ground the aircraft and arrange an NDI and repair with the MRO (e.g., ST Engineering), ensuring CAAS notifications if required. I would also raise this for a quick review of the recent repair to check for process issues.”

Introduction

As a junior inspector, you will be learning from senior engineers and auditors (possibly at carriers or MROs in Singapore). This behavioral question evaluates coachability, continuous improvement mindset, and ability to incorporate feedback—key traits for progression in aviation maintenance.

How to answer

• Use the STAR method: briefly set the Situation and Task, describe the Action you took in response to feedback, and summarize the Result.
• Be specific about the feedback: what was pointed out (e.g., documentation gaps, missed inspection step, poor communication) and who gave it (mentor, certifying engineer, auditor).
• Explain immediate corrective actions you took and any learning steps (training, checklists, shadowing senior inspectors, revising personal SOPs).
• Highlight measurable improvements or outcomes (fewer errors, improved audit results, positive supervisor comments).
• Reflect on what you learned about being an effective inspector and how you continue to incorporate feedback.

What not to say

• Saying you never receive feedback or that you disagreed without reflection.
• Being defensive or blaming others when describing past feedback.
• Providing vague answers with no concrete changes or outcomes.
• Suggesting you ignore procedures and rely only on intuition.

Example answer

“During my apprenticeship at a regional MRO supporting a Singapore-based operator, a senior inspector told me I rushed paperwork after inspections, leaving out critical reference codes. I acknowledged it, asked for examples, and then implemented a simple checklist I used before signing off that included AMM references and defect codes. I also requested to shadow that inspector for a week to observe their documentation discipline. Over the next month my paperwork accuracy improved and the team lead noted fewer follow-up corrections. That feedback taught me to slow down and use checklists to ensure compliance and traceability.”

Introduction

Aircraft inspectors must rapidly assess damage, ensure regulatory compliance (e.g., CAAS requirements), and determine airworthiness. Bird strikes are common in the region and require careful inspection of impacted structures and systems to prevent subsequent failures.

How to answer

• Start with immediate safety measures: ensure the aircraft is secured, engines are shut down as required, and the area is safe for inspection.
• Describe collecting initial information: aircraft logs, pilot/ground crew reports, time of event, flight phase, and affected areas (windshield, radome, engines, nose gear, fuselage).
• Explain a structured inspection checklist: external walkaround focusing on visible damage, engine fan/blade inspection (borescope if needed), radome and antenna checks, windshield inspection, flight control surfaces, and landing gear.
• Mention use of appropriate tools and techniques: borescope, torque wrench, calibrated measuring tools, and non-destructive testing (NDT) such as dye penetrant or eddy current where applicable.
• Reference regulatory and maintenance documentation: consult the aircraft maintenance manual (AMM), structural repair manuals, and CAAS/ICAO guidance; determine if a repair, deferred defect (MEL) or grounding is required.
• Describe documentation and communication: log findings in technical log, notify maintenance control, operations, and the accountable manager, and brief flight crew on any operational limitations or delays.
• Finish with follow-up actions: schedule detailed structural inspection if required, coordinate with NDT specialists or OEM field representatives (e.g., Airbus support), and confirm return-to-service paperwork and sign-offs.

What not to say

• Saying you would rely only on a visual check without using borescope or NDT when appropriate.
• Ignoring regulatory requirements (CAAS) or the need to consult the AMM/MRB/MEL.
• Taking immediate action (like attempting repairs) without proper authorization or documentation.
• Failing to involve relevant teams (maintenance control, NDT specialists, operations) or to log the event correctly.

Example answer

“First I would ensure the aircraft and area are safe and gather the crew and ground reports describing the strike. I’d perform a systematic external inspection concentrating on the nose radome, windshield, forward fuselage, and both engines. For the engines I’d request borescope inspections per the AMM to check fan and compressor blades. If any skin deformation or suspected cracking is found, I’d call in NDT (dye penetrant/eddy current) and consult the structural repair manual and CAAS guidance to determine grounding or allowable deferred defects via the MEL. All findings would be logged in the tech log and reported to maintenance control, and I’d coordinate required repairs and final release paperwork with the certifying staff and the accountable manager before return to service.”

Introduction

This behavioral question evaluates attention to detail, integrity, judgment, and the ability to follow safety culture and procedures — all vital for an aircraft inspector protecting passenger safety and regulatory compliance.

How to answer

• Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) format to structure your response.
• Start by briefly describing the situation and why the defect was non-obvious (e.g., hidden fatigue crack, corrosion under sealant).
• Explain your specific actions: how you discovered it (what clues led you to look deeper), tests performed, involvement of NDT specialists or engineering, and communication steps with supervisors and operations.
• State the immediate safety decisions you made (grounding, deferral, expedited repair) and how you followed regulatory and company procedures (CAAS reporting, logbook entries).
• Quantify the impact if possible (prevented incident, reduced downtime, improved process) and mention lessons learned or process improvements you helped implement.
• Emphasize professional ethics: prioritising safety over schedule or cost.

What not to say

• Claiming you ignored procedures to speed up resolution or to keep the aircraft flying.
• Taking sole credit and not acknowledging collaboration (engineering, NDT, certifying staff).
• Giving a vague story without clear actions or outcomes.
• Admitting to bypassing mandatory reporting or failing to document the defect.

Example answer

“During a routine C-check at a MRO in Singapore, I noticed slight paint lifting around a fastener row on the lower fuselage — subtle but inconsistent with surrounding panels. I ordered localized sealant removal and a dye-penetrant test, which revealed a small fatigue crack in an underlying stringer. I immediately raised a defect in the tech log, informed maintenance control and structural engineering, and recommended grounding until a repair could be approved per the SRM and CAAS guidance. Structural repair was performed and the aircraft was returned to service with an engineering authorization. The early detection prevented a potentially progressive failure; afterwards I briefed the team and updated our inspection checklist to include the paint/fastener anomaly as a prompt for NDT in similar inspections.”

Introduction

This situational/competency question assesses your ability to balance safety, regulatory limits, stakeholder pressure, and operational needs—common challenges in busy Singapore hubs where on-time performance is important but safety is paramount.

How to answer

• State that safety and regulatory compliance are non-negotiable and that MEL provisions must be strictly followed.
• Describe the process: review the specific MEL item, its limitations and time/cycle constraints, and any associated dispatch conditions in the MEL.
• Explain consulting steps: involve maintenance control, the accountable manager or certifying staff, and refer to AMM/MEL/CAAS regulations; if needed, get technical/engineering approval.
• Discuss risk assessment: evaluate impact on flight safety, redundancy of affected systems, operational implications, and potential mitigation steps (e.g., operational limitations, monitoring, additional inspections).
• Outline communication: clearly explain to operations and crew the rationale, constraints, and the consequences of either accepting a deferral or grounding the aircraft.
• Conclude with documentation: record decision, authorizations, and any required deferment entries with clear deadlines for rectification.

What not to say

• Saying you would yield to operational pressure without consulting MEL/AMM/CAAS and certifying staff.
• Suggesting ad-hoc workarounds that bypass regulatory requirements.
• Failing to document the deferment or not setting a clear rectification timeline.
• Ignoring the need to assess actual safety impact before accepting a deferral.

Example answer

“I would first confirm the exact MEL item and its allowable deferral conditions in the MEL and AMM. If the defect legitimately matches an MEL item, I’d ensure all MEL limitations and operational mitigations are understood and acceptable. I would discuss with maintenance control and the certifying staff, and if there's any ambiguity consult structural/avionics engineering or CAAS guidance. If the defect cannot be deferred without compromising safety, I would explain to operations why grounding is necessary and propose alternatives (e.g., swapping aircraft). Whatever the decision, I would record the deferment or grounding in the technical log with the required authorizations and a rectification deadline. Safety and compliance would drive the decision, not schedule pressure.”

Introduction

Senior aircraft inspectors must identify corrosion early, prioritize repairs, and produce compliance-grade documentation. In Japan, alignment with JCAB/MLIT regulations and operator maintenance programs (e.g., for ANA/JAL fleets) is essential for aircraft airworthiness and dispatch reliability.

How to answer

• Start by stating the scope: airframe areas to check (wing roots, lower fuselage, landing gear bay, door sills, control surface attachments, drain paths, bonded joints, fastener holes).
• Describe pre-inspection prep: review aircraft logbooks, SBs/ADs (service bulletins/airworthiness directives), maintenance history, corrosion-prone areas identified in previous inspections, and specific environmental exposures tied to mixed-route ops (coastal, humid, saline environments).
• Explain the inspection methodology: visual inspection under adequate lighting, use of borescopes for confined areas, non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques (eddy current, ultrasound, PT/DT where applicable), and removal of panels if required.
• Discuss risk-based prioritization: assess severity (surface vs. pitting vs. stress corrosion), structural significance, and immediate operational impact to determine corrective action urgency.
• Cover corrective actions and coordination: temporary repairs, repair approvals per manufacturer structural repair manuals, coordination with licensed maintenance organization and structural engineers for permanent repairs, and how to handle parts sourcing if needed.
• Detail documentation standards: how you would record findings in the aircraft technical log, prepare inspection reports referencing JCAB forms/regulations, include photos with scale and location references, propagate findings to the continuing airworthiness management organisation (CAMO), and track corrective action closure.
• Mention compliance and escalation: cite following JCAB airworthiness requirements/AMM/IPC, issuing findings to Quality Assurance, and when to ground the aircraft or issue MEL/ND (minimum equipment list / no dispatch) guidance.

What not to say

• Focusing only on visual checks and neglecting NDT methods for concealed or structural corrosion.
• Claiming you would make repair decisions alone without consulting structural engineers or the operator's CAMO/QC.
• Neglecting to reference local regulatory frameworks (JCAB/MLIT) or manufacturer-approved repair data.
• Saying documentation will be informal or minimal—insufficient record keeping undermines compliance.

Example answer

“First, I'd gather the aircraft's maintenance records and recent flight profiles to identify likely corrosion exposure (for example, regular coastal operations on some Asian routes). I would perform a systematic inspection of high-risk zones—wing roots, belly skin, door sills—using high-intensity lighting and borescope access for confined areas. For suspect zones, I would use eddy current to detect crack-like features and ultrasound to measure any thickness loss. If I found pitting near a stringer lap joint with measurable depth, I'd classify it as more than cosmetic and tag it for immediate temporary repair per the AMM, notify the airline's CAMO and structural engineer, and plan a permanent repair using manufacturer SRM-approved data. All findings would be photographed with scale and grid references, logged in the technical log, and reported on the JCAB-required forms. I would ensure follow-up inspections are scheduled and the repair status tracked until closed by QA, escalating to grounding if the structural integrity were compromised.”

Introduction

This question assesses situational judgment, safety culture leadership, and ability to manage QA processes. Senior inspectors must both act decisively for safety and lead root-cause investigations to prevent recurrence.

How to answer

• Describe immediate safety steps: remove the aircraft from service or apply a temporary restriction if the affected fastener compromises primary flight control safety; secure the specific system and notify on-shift maintenance control and flight operations.
• Explain evidence preservation: record the condition, secure the tool calibration records and torque wrench traceability, and prevent further work on similar tasks until assessed.
• Outline the investigation approach: assemble a cross-functional team (QA, line mechanics, maintenance planner, human factors specialist), interview involved staff, review recent training records and shift schedules, and examine tooling and procedural compliance (AMM/IPC steps followed).
• Discuss root cause analysis methods: use root-cause tools (5 Whys, fishbone diagram) to identify whether the cause is process gap, human factors, inadequate supervision, tooling/calibration failures, or workload/shift fatigue.
• Detail corrective actions: immediate retraining/briefing for implicated staff, tooling recalibration or replacement, update or clarify work cards/checklists, implement mandatory verification steps (dual checks) for critical fasteners, and increase targeted audits for a defined period.
• Explain follow-up and measurement: set KPIs (reduction in torque marking discrepancies), schedule follow-up audits, report findings and corrective actions to the CAMO and JCAB if required, and document lessons learned into the safety management system (SMS).

What not to say

• Downplaying the issue as a trivial paperwork or cosmetic problem when it involves primary flight controls.
• Blaming junior staff without investigating systemic causes like training, procedures, or tooling.
• Skipping proper documentation or failing to notify QA/CAMO/management of recurring non-compliance.
• Implementing only short-term fixes without monitoring effectiveness.

Example answer

“My first priority would be safety: I would prohibit dispatch of the affected aircraft until the specific fastener and adjacent flight control integrity are verified, and I'd tag similar aircraft for immediate inspection. I'd secure the torque tools and calibration records to rule out equipment failure. Next, I'd convene a quick investigation with QA, line maintenance leads and a human factors specialist to review procedures, recent training, and shift patterns. If the root cause was found to be inconsistent torque verification and an overloaded shift schedule, corrective actions would include retraining, mandatory dual-verification for critical fasteners, recalibrating and re-certifying torque tools, and adjusting staffing or shift patterns to reduce overload. All actions and audit follow-ups would be logged in the SMS and reported to CAMO and JCAB if a safety-significant trend is confirmed.”

Introduction

Senior inspectors often lead change across functions. This behavioral question evaluates leadership, stakeholder management, and program implementation skills—critical for driving inspection program updates under Japanese regulatory and airline environments.

How to answer

• Use the STAR format: explain the Situation (why change was needed), Task (your role), Actions (how you led the change), and Results (measurable outcomes).
• Identify stakeholders and how you engaged them: maintenance planners, CAMO, engineering, QA, operations, procurement, and JCAB if applicable.
• Describe your approach to building consensus: present data (failure rates, ADs/SBs), risk assessments, cost–benefit analysis, and pilot trials to demonstrate effectiveness.
• Explain change management tactics: set clear timelines, assign responsibilities, provide training materials, establish SOP updates, and create a communication plan in both Japanese and English if needed for international teams.
• State success metrics: reduction in repeat findings, on-time completion of inspections, reduced AOG risk, regulatory compliance, and positive audit results.
• Mention follow-up and continuous improvement: monitor KPIs, collect feedback, and iterate the program.

What not to say

• Claiming you imposed changes without stakeholder input or pilot testing.
• Focusing only on technical details while ignoring operational impacts like aircraft availability or cost.
• Failing to mention measurable results or follow-up monitoring.
• Overlooking the need to align with JCAB guidance or the operator's CAMO.

Example answer

“At a major Japanese MRO supporting both JAL and third-party operators, I led an initiative to adopt an enhanced structural inspection interval for aging A320 fleets after data showed increasing lap-joint findings. I coordinated a working group including engineering, CAMO, QA and line planners. I opened with a data-driven briefing showing trend analysis and safety risk, proposed a phased pilot on three aircraft to validate the approach, and worked with procurement to secure inspection tooling. To gain buy-in, I presented the cost of unscheduled repairs versus planned inspections, and translated technical benefits into operational terms for scheduling teams. We implemented updated checklists, delivered training sessions in Japanese for line staff, and set KPIs (30% reduction in unscheduled structural repairs within 12 months). After the pilot showed improved detection and reduced AOGs, we rolled out the program, documented changes in the SMS, and reported outcomes to CAMO and JCAB. Six months post-implementation we saw a 35% drop in urgent findings and positive feedback in the next audit.”

Introduction

As Lead Aircraft Inspector in Singapore, ensuring persistent defects are correctly diagnosed and permanently rectified is critical for safety and regulatory compliance with the CAAS and airline procedures. This question assesses your technical troubleshooting, root-cause analysis, regulatory knowledge and ability to drive corrective actions.

How to answer

• Start with a concise summary of the observation (what the recurring non-compliance is and how often it appears).
• Outline how you'd collect evidence: inspection records, logbooks, repeated findings, photographs, and interviews with crew and maintenance technicians.
• Describe a root-cause analysis approach (e.g., 5 Whys, fishbone diagram) to determine why temporary fixes are recurring instead of permanent repairs.
• Explain how you'd assess whether the issue is a maintenance procedure gap, parts quality problem, engineering/design defect, or training/competency issue.
• Show how you'd coordinate with stakeholders: maintenance control, engineering, quality assurance, and operations (including referencing CAAS requirements and the operator's MEL/CDL policies).
• State the corrective actions you would push for (temporary operational mitigations, engineering orders, modification, supplier escalation), and how you'd verify effectiveness (follow-up inspections, trending over flights).
• Explain documentation steps: raising findings in the aircraft technical log, issuing repeat findings reports, updating the Non-Conformance Report (NCR), and notifying CAAS if the condition meets mandatory reporting thresholds.
• Quantify expected outcomes if possible (e.g., elimination of repeats within X flight cycles) and mention how you'd monitor long-term recurrence through trending and audit.

What not to say

• Accepting the temporary fix as 'good enough' without pursuing root cause and permanent correction.
• Blaming frontline technicians without reviewing procedures, parts, and engineering inputs.
• Failing to reference regulatory/reporting obligations (CAAS, operator procedures) when escalation is required.
• Neglecting to plan verification and follow-up to confirm the fix worked.

Example answer

“First I would gather all evidence: the technical logs showing the repeats, photos, and speak with the technicians and pilots to understand symptom recurrence. Using a 5 Whys analysis, I might find the temporary fix addresses a symptom caused by a faulty bracket that intermittently loosens. I would escalate to engineering and supplier quality for a permanent modification or redesigned part while implementing an interim inspection item in the maintenance program. I would log the non-conformance, issue an NCR, and if the defect affects airworthiness beyond operator capability to correct, notify CAAS per reporting rules. Finally, I would schedule follow-up checks over the next 50 flight cycles and review trends; if repeats stop, close the corrective action with evidence; if not, escalate further. This approach ensures safety, compliance and prevents operational disruption.”

Introduction

Lead Aircraft Inspectors often manage inspection teams under pressure. Balancing speed and quality while maintaining compliance and staff morale is essential—especially in Singapore's high-standards airline/maintenance environment. This behavioral question evaluates leadership, operational planning, and quality assurance skills.

How to answer

• Use the STAR method: set the Situation, Task, Action, and Result.
• Begin by describing the context (scale of backlog, regulatory/time pressure, and impact on operations).
• Explain your planning: prioritisation criteria (safety-critical items first), resource allocation, and shift rostering while ensuring fatigue management and CAAS limits for duty hours.
• Detail how you maintained quality: additional spot checks, senior inspector oversight, standardized checklists, and cross-functional briefings with maintenance and engineering.
• Describe communication and stakeholder management: keeping operations, planners and management informed about realistic timelines and risk mitigations.
• Highlight people leadership actions: coaching less experienced inspectors, ensuring PPE and tools, recognizing efforts, and addressing fatigue/stress.
• Finish with measurable results (e.g., backlog reduction percentage, turnaround time improvement, no repeat findings, audit outcome) and lessons learned.

What not to say

• Claiming you simply worked the team longer hours without addressing fatigue or compliance with duty-time regulations.
• Focusing only on speed without describing quality checks or safety controls.
• Taking sole credit—omit team contributions or failing to mention coordination with maintenance/engineering.
• Ignoring regulatory constraints or failing to mention communication with CAAS if required.

Example answer

“During a prolonged AOG period for six narrowbodies at a Singapore MRO, my team faced a backlog of D-check follow-ups. I prioritized based on return-to-service impact and critical defects, created 12-hour staggered shifts to maintain continuity while complying with duty-hour limits, and assigned senior inspectors to perform final sign-offs. We implemented daily briefing checkpoints with maintenance and planners and introduced an extra 10% sampling inspection on reworked tasks to preserve quality. As a result, we cleared the backlog 30% faster than projected, with zero major repeat findings and positive feedback during the subsequent internal audit. I learned the value of clear priorities, structured oversight and team welfare for sustainable performance.”

Introduction

Inspectors must balance professional judgment with operational pressures. In Singapore's tightly regulated environment, resolving conflicts with flight crew while preserving safety and compliance is essential. This situational question probes your conflict resolution, regulatory knowledge and assertiveness.

How to answer

• Start by explaining that safety and regulatory compliance are non-negotiable and you would remain calm and professional.
• Describe gathering facts: review the specific deferment item, MEL/CDL allowances, technical log entries, and the inspection evidence.
• Explain how you'd engage the captain: present clear, objective evidence and explain regulatory and company implications of dispatching with/without the deferment.
• State how you'd involve appropriate stakeholders: maintenance control, quality assurance, and operations control; reference CAAS regulations and the operator's dispatch policy.
• If disagreement persists, describe escalation steps: invoking formal procedures for refusal/grounding, contacting the accountable manager or safety manager, and documenting the interaction.
• Emphasize follow-up documentation: sign-off entries, reports of the dispute, and using the event as a learning case for procedures or communication improvements.

What not to say

• Backing down to operational pressure without assessing regulatory and safety implications.
• Being confrontational or personal in the discussion with the captain.
• Failing to document the event or to follow escalation procedures if disagreement continues.
• Relying purely on opinion instead of objective evidence and regulations.

Example answer

“I would calmly present the inspection evidence and explain why the defect meets the criteria for a deferment under our MEL, referencing the exact MEL item and CAAS guidance. I'd invite the captain to review the findings with maintenance control present so everyone has the same information. If the captain still insisted on dispatch, I would escalate per company procedures—contacting the safety/operations manager and documenting the dispute in the technical log and an incident report. The priority is to resolve the disagreement transparently while protecting safety and maintaining regulatory compliance. After resolution, I'd arrange a debrief to improve future communication between flight crew and maintenance/inspection teams.”