This handbook can be a valuable reference tool for anyone who would like to review the "nuts and bolts" of aircraft ownership. Aircraft owners and operators, or anyone considering aircraft ownership, should be familiar with Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR), which details regulations for aircraft owners, operators, pilots, aircraft mechanics, and maintenance providers. Since the requirements can be updated and the regulations can change, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recommends that you contact your nearest FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), where the personnel can assist you with the various requirements for aircraft ownership, operation, and maintenance.

The FAA has also added information for aviation enthusiasts who own (or are interested in owning) lightsport aircraft, a new and evolving sector of the general aviation marketplace.

This handbook highlights regulations and regulatory guidance material, as well as providing advice regarding where to locate answers to your questions. While Plane Sense cannot cover every issue faced by aircraft owners and operators, this handbook is intended to be a useful guide and will help you locate the resources to assist you.

This publication supersedes FAA-8083-19, which was reprinted with editorial updates in 2003.