What is essential for flight tests after alterations on U.S. aircraft?

Compliance with FAA regulations is critical for flight tests following alterations on U.S. aircraft because these regulations are designed to ensure safety and standardization in aviation operations. The FAA establishes guidelines for how modifications are to be tested, which includes safety checks, documentation, and operational performance. Adhering to these regulations helps ensure that any changes made to the aircraft do not compromise its safety or airworthiness.

This focus on regulatory compliance is fundamental to maintaining the overall integrity of the national airspace system. Without these standards in place, pilots could fly altered aircraft without adequate assessment, increasing the risk of accidents. While the other options touch on important aspects of aircraft operation and ownership, such as approval from the owner, updated maintenance records, and notifying local authorities, they do not carry the same weight in terms of regulatory obligation and overall safety as compliance with FAA regulations does.