Aircraft flight manual
# Aircraft flight manual

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 a 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:

* V speeds
* Aircraft gross weight
* Maximum ramp weight
* Maximum takeoff weight
* Manufacturer's empty weight
* Operating empty weight
* Centre of gravity limitations
* Zero-fuel weight
* Takeoff distance
* 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 a 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
