Which type of defects constitute a hazard to airworthiness, requiring corrective action before the aircraft is released for flight?

In the context of aviation and aircraft safety, critical defects are those that pose a significant risk to airworthiness and, therefore, necessitate immediate corrective action before the aircraft can be safely operated. These defects are identified as having the potential to lead to a catastrophic failure if not addressed, making them a top priority in maintenance and inspection protocols.

Critical defects can include issues such as structural failures, malfunctioning of essential systems (like flight controls or engines), or any other condition that could jeopardize the aircraft's ability to function safely. Because the consequences of these defects can result in loss of control or failure during flight, addressing them is imperative for ensuring passenger safety and compliance with aviation regulations.

Other categories of defects, such as minor or major, do not carry the same level of urgency regarding airworthiness. Minor defects may typically result in cosmetic problems or have a low likelihood of affecting the aircraft's performance, while major defects, while serious, might not require grounding of the aircraft if conditions allow for an acceptable level of operation until repairs can be conducted. Insignificant defects are seen as trivial and do not impact safety.

Thus, the classification of a defect as critical is essential for maintaining the highest safety standards in aviation operations.