Aircraft Battery Inspection and Maintenance Checklist

This aircraft battery inspection and maintenance checklist ensures compliance with FAA AC 43.13-1B (Acceptable Aircraft Maintenance Methods), FAA AC 20-158 (Battery Thermal Runaway), OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178 battery safety requirements, and aircraft manufacturer AMM battery maintenance procedures. Designed for A&P mechanics to inspect, test, and service aircraft battery systems including nickel-cadmium (NiCd), lead-acid, and lithium battery systems.

  • Industry: Aviation
  • Frequency: Per Event
  • Estimated Time: 1-3 hours
  • Role: A&P Mechanic / Avionics Technician
  • Total Items: 30
  • Compliance: FAA AC 43.13-1B Aircraft Inspection and Repair, FAA AC 20-158 Battery Systems for Aircraft, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178 Battery Safety, Aircraft AMM Battery Maintenance Procedures, Manufacturer Battery Service Manual

Safety Precautions

Battery handling safety.

  • Acid-resistant PPE (gloves, goggles, apron) worn?
  • Battery shop well-ventilated to dissipate hydrogen gas?
  • No sparks or open flames near charging batteries?
  • Eyewash station within 10 seconds of battery work area?
  • Battery acid spill neutralization materials available (baking soda)?

Visual Inspection

Battery condition inspection.

  • Battery case free of cracks, leaks, and corrosion?
  • Battery terminals clean, tight, and corrosion-free?
  • Electrolyte levels correct (lead-acid only)?
  • No battery case swelling or bulging?
  • Battery connector and cable wiring in good condition?

Battery Testing

Capacity and serviceability testing.

  • Battery capacity test meets AMM minimum serviceability limit?
  • Individual cell voltages within limits (NiCd: >1.0V each cell)?
  • Internal resistance within acceptable limits?
  • Battery charger output voltage and current within spec?
  • Any signs of thermal runaway (heat damage, burned connectors)?

Nickel-Cadmium Specific

NiCd battery maintenance.

  • Cells washed per AMM schedule to prevent KOH contamination?
  • KOH electrolyte specific gravity within limits?
  • Equalization charge completed per AMM?
  • NiCd capacity meets serviceability limit (60% of new)?
  • Memory effect addressed with proper cycling per AMM?

Battery Installation

Battery installation verification.

  • Correct battery part number for aircraft type installed?
  • Battery polarity correct before connecting?
  • Battery securely mounted in battery box?
  • Battery vent tube clear and properly connected?
  • Aircraft bus voltage correct after battery installation?

Battery Records

Battery maintenance documentation.

  • Aircraft logbook entry for battery service?
  • Battery log/history updated with service and test results?
  • Next battery service/capacity test date documented?
  • Removed battery disposed per EPA hazardous waste requirements?
  • Battery Maintenance Notes

Related Aviation Checklists

Related Aircraft Maintenance Checklists

Why Use This Aircraft Battery Inspection and Maintenance Checklist?

This aircraft battery inspection and maintenance checklist helps aviation teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for a&p mechanic / avionics technician professionals, this checklist covers 30 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: per event.

Ensures compliance with FAA AC 43.13-1B Aircraft Inspection and Repair, FAA AC 20-158 Battery Systems for Aircraft, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178 Battery Safety, Aircraft AMM Battery Maintenance Procedures, Manufacturer Battery Service Manual. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Aircraft Battery Inspection and Maintenance Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 30 inspection items across 6 sections: Safety Precautions, Visual Inspection, Battery Testing, Nickel-Cadmium Specific, Battery Installation, Battery Records. It is designed for aviation operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed per event. Each completion takes approximately 1-3 hours.

Who should use this Aircraft Battery Inspection and Maintenance Checklist?

This checklist is designed for A&P Mechanic / Avionics Technician professionals in the aviation industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

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