Which document would you reference to understand the history and maintenance of an aircraft?

The AFTO Form 781H is the correct document to reference for understanding the history and maintenance of an aircraft. This form serves as the aircraft's maintenance record, containing detailed information about the schedule and actual maintenance performed on the aircraft. It provides a comprehensive history, documenting inspections, repairs, modifications, and any discrepancies or issues that might have arisen during its service life. Therefore, by reviewing the AFTO Form 781H, aircrew and maintenance personnel can gain insights into the aircraft's condition, its maintenance needs, and when it is due for future servicing, ensuring that the aircraft remains operationally safe and reliable.

The other forms listed serve different purposes. For example, AFTO Form 781K is primarily used for documenting flight time and other flying-related information rather than the comprehensive maintenance history. AFTO Form 781A is used for discrepancy reporting and managing maintenance actions but does not compile the full maintenance history as clearly as the 781H. Lastly, AFTO 46 is a document used for tracking maintenance data but does not provide the detailed aircraft history found in the 781H.