What type of inspection is typically performed before a long flight?

The correct choice is the routine maintenance check. This type of inspection is conducted before a long flight to ensure that the aircraft is in optimal condition for safety and operational performance. Routine maintenance checks are systematic evaluations that include checking critical components, fluid levels, and systems to confirm they meet operational standards.

By performing a routine maintenance check before a long flight, potential issues can be identified and rectified, ensuring that the aircraft is ready for the demands of a long journey. This practice aligns with aviation safety protocols, as it helps mitigate risks associated with mechanical failures during extended operations.

While other options, such as visual inspections, detailed inspections, and post-flight inspections, also play significant roles in aircraft safety and maintenance, they serve different purposes. A visual inspection is typically a quick assessment conducted to identify obvious discrepancies but does not encompass the thorough evaluation that a routine maintenance check provides. A detailed inspection involves a more extensive examination of specific components, often performed at regular intervals, but may not be practical for pre-flight readiness checks every time. The post-flight inspection occurs after a flight to analyze the aircraft's performance and any wear and tear sustained during the journey rather than before it.