airplane flight manual vs poh

Olvin

2 min read

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02-02-2025

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For pilots, understanding the difference between an Airplane Flight Manual (AFM) and a Pilot Operating Handbook (POH) is crucial for safe and efficient flight operations. While often used interchangeably, these documents serve distinct purposes and contain different information. This article will clarify the distinctions between these essential pilot resources, highlighting their key differences and importance.

What is an Airplane Flight Manual (AFM)?

The Airplane Flight Manual (AFM) is a comprehensive document that provides detailed information about the aircraft's systems, performance characteristics, and limitations. It's essentially the technical bible for the aircraft, covering everything from basic operating procedures to complex system malfunctions. Think of it as the aircraft manufacturer's official guide to operating the plane.

Key Features of an AFM:

• Detailed Systems Descriptions: Provides in-depth explanations of the aircraft's various systems, including engines, flight controls, electrical systems, and hydraulics.
• Performance Data: Includes charts and graphs illustrating the aircraft's performance capabilities under various conditions (e.g., weight, altitude, temperature). This data is critical for flight planning.
• Emergency Procedures: Outlines procedures for handling various emergencies, including engine failures, system malfunctions, and other critical situations.
• Limitations: Clearly defines the aircraft's operational limitations, ensuring safe flight within specified parameters.
• Maintenance Information: May include sections on routine maintenance and troubleshooting.

Who Creates the AFM? The AFM is typically created and certified by the aircraft manufacturer.

What is a Pilot Operating Handbook (POH)?

The Pilot Operating Handbook (POH), sometimes called a Pilot's Operating Handbook, is a more concise document tailored to the specific aircraft's configuration and typically includes information specific to a particular aircraft's modifications or equipment. It acts as a practical guide for pilots, summarizing the essential information needed for safe and efficient operation.

Key Features of a POH:

• Normal Operating Procedures: Provides step-by-step instructions for normal flight operations, including takeoff, climb, cruise, descent, and landing.
• Emergency Procedures (Summary): Often contains a summarized version of the emergency procedures found in the AFM, focusing on the most critical scenarios.
• Weight and Balance Information: Details how to calculate the aircraft's weight and balance, ensuring it remains within safe operating limits.
• Performance Data (Summary): A summarized version of the performance data from the AFM, relevant to the specific aircraft configuration.
• Aircraft Specifications: Includes key information about the aircraft, such as model, serial number, and engine type.

Who Creates the POH? The POH may be created by the aircraft manufacturer, but it's often created or supplemented by the aircraft owner or operator after any modifications are made to the aircraft.

AFM vs. POH: Key Differences Summarized

The Importance of Both Documents

Both the AFM and POH are indispensable resources for pilots. The AFM serves as the definitive source of technical information, while the POH provides a practical guide for day-to-day operations. Pilots should always consult both manuals before and during each flight to ensure safe and efficient operation of the aircraft. Failure to do so could compromise safety and legal compliance.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional flight training or official aircraft documentation. Always consult your aircraft's specific AFM and POH for accurate and complete information.