ASA 2026 FAR/AIM Handbook - FAA Regulations Guide for Pilots & Instructors

What does FAR/AIM mean and what is the difference between the FAR and the AIM?

FAR/AIM combines the Federal Aviation Regulations with the Aeronautical Information Manual in one book. The FAR is the body of FAA rules in Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations and carries the force of federal law. The AIM is the FAA reference that explains flight operations, procedures, and airspace in plain, instructional language.

Which regulations does the ASA 2026 FAR/AIM cover?

This handbook gathers the current federal aviation regulations from Titles 14 and 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations, focused on the general aviation rules pilots use most, plus the complete full-color Aeronautical Information Manual. It also adds the Pilot/Controller Glossary and the Pilot Bill of Rights, so regulatory, procedural, and legal references sit in one volume.

Does this edition include the air carrier rules such as Parts 121 and 135?

This edition concentrates on the general aviation regulations rather than the full air carrier and commuter rules. Crews flying under those operations typically use a separate flight crew reference built around the air carrier parts. For most pilots, instructors, and students, the general aviation coverage in this FAR/AIM is the standard reference.

Who is the ASA FAR/AIM written for?

It is designed for pilots, flight instructors, drone operators, and aviation maintenance professionals. Suggested study lists organized by certificate and rating make it a strong companion for student pilots preparing for a checkride, while experienced aviators use it as a complete in-flight and ground reference for managing flight operations.

What is the ISBN for the ASA 2026 FAR/AIM Handbook?

The printed softcover ASA 2026 FAR/AIM Handbook carries ISBN 9781644254981. Quoting that number helps confirm you are ordering the correct current edition rather than an older printing, since ASA publishes a new FAR/AIM each year and the contents can change from one annual edition to the next.

What is the edition and effective date of this FAR/AIM?

This is the 2026 edition with an effective date in 2025, reflecting the regulations in force as ASA went to print. Because the FAA continues issuing changes after printing, the included complimentary one-year email update subscription notifies you of regulatory and procedural changes released throughout the year so your reference stays accurate.

Do I need a new FAR/AIM every year, and how do the updates work?

Regulations change throughout the year, so many pilots replace their printed edition annually to stay current. This 2026 edition clearly marks the changes from the previous version and includes a complimentary one-year subscription to email updates, so you are notified of regulatory changes released by the FAA after the book was printed.

What size is the book, and how many pages does it have?

The ASA 2026 FAR/AIM is a softcover handbook measuring 6 by 9 inches with 1,120 pages, printed in full color with FAA figures throughout. The compact format is easy to carry in a flight bag, and built-in margin tabs plus a streamlined layout help you find essential information quickly.

Is this the printed book, and what else is included with it?

Yes, this is the printed softcover handbook. Along with the regulations and the complete full-color AIM, it includes the Pilot/Controller Glossary, the Pilot Bill of Rights, suggested study lists by certificate and rating, margin tabs for fast reference, and a complimentary one-year email update subscription. Click for Price to check current availability.

Is there a digital or app version, or is this only the print book?

This is the printed softcover handbook. ASA also publishes the FAR/AIM in digital editions and a separate app, but those are different products. If you want a physical book you can tab, mark, and carry in your flight bag without a screen or battery, this printed edition is the one to choose.

Can I use the FAR/AIM during my checkride oral exam?

The practical test oral is open book, so examiners generally let you look up regulations in a current FAR/AIM the way you would during normal flight planning. You may not use it during the FAA knowledge written test. Keep a current edition, since examiners expect references to reflect the latest rules.