What indicates that an aircraft has undergone continuous airworthiness maintenance?

A signed maintenance release indicates that an aircraft has undergone continuous airworthiness maintenance because it serves as a formal document confirming that all necessary maintenance checks were completed in accordance with regulatory standards. This release signifies that the aircraft is safe and airworthy for flight and reflects compliance with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.

While a physical inspection may also be part of the maintenance process, it alone does not confirm that all aspects of maintenance and airworthiness have been thoroughly addressed. Recent flight time provides information about the aircraft's usage but does not necessarily speak to its maintenance history or compliance with airworthiness standards. An updated operating handbook is important for guidance on operating the aircraft but does not directly indicate that maintenance has been performed or that airworthiness has been verified. Therefore, the signed maintenance release is the most definitive indicator of continuous airworthiness maintenance.