What does the signature of an authorized person on the maintenance records signify?

The signature of an authorized person on the maintenance records signifies approval for return to service only for the work performed. This means that the authorized individual has reviewed and verified that the aircraft has been inspected or maintained according to regulatory standards and is safe for operation based on the specific work that has been completed.

This signature acts as a formal acknowledgment that the required maintenance tasks have been performed correctly and that any necessary repairs or inspections have been carried out. It is particularly important for ensuring compliance with aviation safety standards and regulations, as it provides a documented assurance that the aircraft meets the necessary safety requirements before being returned to service.

While the other options might seem related to the maintenance process, they do not capture the precise nature of what the signature represents. The authorized person's signature is specifically tied to the completion of the work done and does not imply future approvals, general completion of the entire inspection process, or blanket permission to operate the aircraft without regard to specific maintenance actions.