
An aircraft flight manual (AFM) is a paper book or electronic information set containing information required to operate an aircraft of certain type or particular aircraft of that type (each AFM is tailored for a specific aircraft, though aircraft of the same type naturally have very similar AFMs). The information within an AFM is also referred to as Technical Airworthiness Data (TAWD). A typical flight manual will contain the following: operating limitations, Normal/Abnormal/Emergency operating procedures, performance data and loading information.
An AFM will often include:
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V speeds
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Aircraft gross weight
The aircraft gross weight (also known as the all-up weight and abbreviated AUW) is the total aircraft weight at ''any moment'' during the flight or ground operation.
An aircraft's gross weight will decrease during a flight due to fuel and oil co ...
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Maximum ramp weight
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Maximum takeoff weight
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Manufacturer's empty weight
In aviation, manufacturer's empty weight (MEW) (also known as manufacturer's weight empty (MWE)) is the weight of the aircraft "as built" and includes the weight of the structure, power plant, furnishings, installations, systems, and other equipmen ...
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Operating empty weight
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Centre of gravity limitations
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Zero-fuel weight
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Takeoff distance
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Landing distance
Originally, an AFM would follow whichever format and order the manufacturer felt appropriate. Eventually, the
General Aviation Manufacturers Association came to an agreement to standardize in GAMA Specification No. 1 the format of AFM's for general aviation airplanes and helicopters known as the Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH).
The chapters of a POH always follow the format of:
[
# General
# Limitations
# Emergency Procedures
# Normal Procedures
# Performance
# Weight and Balance/Equipment List
# Systems Description
# Handling, Service, and Maintenance
# Supplements
]
See also
* Index of aviation articles
Aviation is the design, development, production, operation, and use of aircraft, especially heavier-than-air aircraft. Articles related to aviation include:
A
Aviation accidents and incidents
– Above Mean Sea Level (AMSL)
– ADF
– Acces ...
* Electronic flight bag
* Quick Reference Handbook
References
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External links
Flight Manuals (UK CAA)
US FAA Flight Manuals and Other Documents
Aircraft operations
Aviation publications