Who can perform an Operational Flight Check?

The correct answer is that a pilot rated on that specific aircraft can perform an Operational Flight Check. This is because the purpose of an Operational Flight Check is to assess the functionality and performance of an aircraft, which requires familiarity with its systems, controls, and handling characteristics. A pilot who is rated on the specific aircraft type possesses the necessary training and knowledge to conduct this check safely and effectively.

Only those pilots who have undergone the appropriate training and have been certified to operate that particular aircraft model will have the expertise to accurately evaluate its performance and safety parameters. This ensures compliance with aviation safety regulations and operational standards.

Other options, such as a certified pilot without a type rating, or a pilot who is not rated on that specific aircraft, might possess general flying skills but lack the specific knowledge required for the operational check. Similarly, a ground maintenance technician, while knowledgeable about aircraft systems, is not trained to conduct flight operations in a way that requires piloting skills. This difference highlights the importance of specific pilot qualifications in ensuring the safety and efficiency of aviation operations.