What is the ending condition of a flight duty period (FDP)?

The ending condition of a flight duty period (FDP) is defined as occurring at the final engine shutdown after the last flight. This is important because it establishes a clear point at which the crew's responsibilities and duty time are considered complete.

The regulatory framework surrounding flight duty time prioritizes safety and fatigue management, and recognizing the endpoint of FDP is critical in ensuring that aircrew do not exceed maximum duty limits. Therefore, understanding this endpoint as the moment the engines are shut down after landing helps in accurately assigning and monitoring duty times.

Other options suggest moments that either do not capture the full completion of duties or incorrectly interpret when crew responsibilities officially conclude. For instance, the departure of a flight or a final fuel check does not signify the end of a duty period, as the crew is still engaged in their operational responsibilities. Leaving the aircraft may also occur while post-flight duties or paperwork are still ongoing, thus it does not represent the clear conclusion of duties as defined by regulations.