The short answer
The scope is essentially the same, but the requirement differs: an annual inspection is required every 12 months for all aircraft, while a 100-hour inspection is required additionally for aircraft used commercially or for hire (like flight-school and rental airplanes). A private airplane not for hire needs only the annual.
The Requirement Difference
Both inspections cover essentially the same airworthiness items. The difference is when they're required. An annual is mandatory every 12 calendar months for any aircraft to remain airworthy. A 100-hour inspection is required in addition, every 100 hours of time in service, for aircraft used for hire — flight instruction for compensation, rental, and similar commercial use. A privately-owned airplane flown for personal use needs only the annual.
What It Means for Owners
If you own an airplane for personal use, budget for the annual and you're set on this requirement. If your airplane is on a flight line, in a rental fleet, or used for paid instruction, plan for 100-hour inspections between annuals — a cost that flight schools build into their operating budgets. An A&P mechanic (with Inspection Authorization for the annual) performs both. See our ownership cost guide.
Figures in this article are illustrative for the 2026 market and are not offers of credit. Jaken Aviation is a licensed aircraft financing brokerage — a division of Jaken Finance Group — and does not make loan decisions. All financing is subject to lender approval. Tax and legal information is general; consult a qualified professional.
Related Questions
Do I need a 100-hour inspection for personal flying?
No — a privately-owned airplane not used for hire needs only the annual inspection. The 100-hour applies to aircraft used commercially or for hire.
Is the scope different?
The inspection scope is essentially the same; the difference is the requirement and frequency, driven by whether the aircraft is used for hire.
Who performs these inspections?
An A&P mechanic; the annual specifically requires a mechanic holding Inspection Authorization (IA).
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