When is the annual inspection due for an aircraft that has been imported from a foreign country?

The annual inspection for an aircraft that has been imported from a foreign country is due in 12 calendar months from the month of the last annual inspection or, if none has been performed, from the date of importation into the U.S. However, if the last annual was not conducted in accordance with the U.S. regulations, then a full annual inspection must be performed within that 12-month window to ensure compliance with FAA standards.

Choosing 10 calendar months might stem from confusion with other maintenance intervals or regulations that apply to different types of inspections or operational requirements. It's crucial to recognize that the standard timeline for an annual inspection is established based on the aircraft's operational history and its adherence to maintenance records, not on an arbitrary shortened timeline.

Therefore, the correct due date for the annual inspection after an import is 12 calendar months, aligning with the regulatory requirements set forth by the FAA for maintaining the airworthiness of imported aircraft.