Aircraft Manuals & Pilot Operating Handbooks (POH)

A Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH) is the standardized operating handbook produced by the manufacturer, while an Aircraft Flight Manual (AFM) is the FAA-approved document for a specific airframe. For many aircraft the POH and AFM are combined, but the approved AFM portion is the legally controlling document for that individual aircraft.

A Pilot's Operating Handbook contains the information a pilot needs to operate the aircraft safely: general specifications, operating limitations, normal and emergency procedures, performance charts, weight and balance data, a systems description, and handling and servicing notes. Post-1976 POHs follow a standardized nine-section layout so pilots can find each topic quickly.

A POH is tied to a specific aircraft by serial number and is intended as that airplane's operating document, while a Pilot's Information Manual (PIM) is a model-wide reprint of the same content that is not aircraft-specific. A PIM is meant for study, transition training, and reference rather than as the document carried in a certified aircraft.

The standardized POH format was adopted through an industry specification in the mid-1970s, so light aircraft built before that transition shipped with an Owner's Manual instead. Owner's Manuals cover the same essential operating information as a POH but use an earlier, less uniform layout that varies by manufacturer and model year.

No. Reproduction POHs are for training and reference purposes only and do not replace the FAA-required original or officially approved AFM documentation for certified operations. Use a reprint to study, review procedures, or replace a worn study copy, and keep the original or approved document with the aircraft as required.

A POH or Owner's Manual is written for the pilot and covers operating limitations, performance, weight and balance, and emergency procedures. A maintenance or service manual is written for the mechanic and covers inspection, repair, and overhaul. They serve different audiences, so owners working on an airframe usually need both.