What should a pilot do if the inspector tries to leave with their documents?

In this scenario, the most appropriate response for a pilot when faced with an inspector attempting to leave with their documents is to document the incident for legal reference. When officials are involved, ensuring that everything is properly documented is crucial to maintain a clear record of the events that transpired. This helps protect the pilot's rights and can be important for any potential legal proceedings or disputes that may arise.

Recording the details of the encounter—including the time, place, and nature of the interaction—provides an objective account that can be referred back to later. This is vital in aviation law, where regulations and rights can be complex and may require substantiation of events for any hearings, investigations, or appeals.

In contrast, calling for help, chasing after the inspector, or yelling at them could escalate the situation, potentially leading to misunderstandings, confrontations, or further complications that could jeopardize the pilot's standing. These actions may also be viewed negatively by authorities, as they might suggest a lack of cooperation or professionalism. Therefore, documenting the incident not only preserves the pilot’s perspective but also shows a commitment to handling the matter appropriately within legal frameworks.