Which of the following best defines a Collateral Duty Inspector (CDI)?

The role of a Collateral Duty Inspector (CDI) is crucial in maintaining the safety and airworthiness of aircraft. A CDI is responsible for inspecting all maintenance work performed on aircraft and ensuring that these processes adhere strictly to quality assurance (QA) standards. This involves regularly reviewing the work of other personnel, verifying that all maintenance tasks are completed correctly, and documenting these actions in accordance with established procedures.

This oversight helps to ensure that all safety protocols are met and that the aircraft is safe to operate. By focusing on compliance with quality standards, the CDI contributes significantly to the overall mission readiness of the naval aviation community, ensuring that aircraft meet the necessary maintenance requirements before being deemed ready for flight.

In contrast, the other options pertain to different responsibilities within the maintenance and readiness framework. For example, planning maintenance schedules, certifying aircraft for flight, and overseeing parts procurement are all critical tasks but are not the primary focus of a CDI’s role. The emphasis of the CDI is distinctly on inspection and compliance, making that definition the most accurate and relevant to the duties they perform.