Which individual is responsible for determining the airworthiness of an aircraft before flight?

The pilot in command holds the ultimate responsibility for determining the airworthiness of an aircraft before flight. This requirement stems from regulations that stipulate the pilot must ensure that the aircraft is in a condition for safe operation. This includes conducting pre-flight inspections to verify that all systems are functioning correctly and that there are no mechanical issues that could compromise safety during the flight.

While aircraft mechanics play a crucial role in maintaining and repairing aircraft, and owners/operators must ensure their aircraft are maintained in accordance with regulations, it is the pilot who performs the final check to make sure the aircraft is ready for flight. Air traffic controllers manage traffic and ensure safety in the airspace but do not have responsibility for the airworthiness of individual aircraft. Therefore, the specific duty of assessing whether the aircraft is fit for takeoff ultimately resides with the pilot in command.