The Airplane Flying Handbook provides basic knowledge that is essential for pilots. This handbook introduces basic pilot
skills and knowledge that are essential for piloting airplanes. It provides information on transition to other airplanes and the
operation of various airplane systems. It is developed by the Flight Standards Service, Airman Testing Standards Branch, in
cooperation with various aviation educators and industry. This handbook is developed to assist student pilots learning
to fly airplanes. It is also beneficial to pilots who wish to improve their flying proficiency and aeronautical knowledge,
those pilots preparing for additional certificates or ratings, and flight instructors engaged in the instruction of both student
and certificated pilots. It introduces the future pilot to the realm of flight and provides information and guidance in the
performance of procedures and maneuvers required for pilot certification. Topics such as navigation and communication,
meteorology, use of flight information publications, regulations, and aeronautical decision making are available in other
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) publications.
Occasionally the word “must” or similar language is used where the desired action is deemed critical. The use of such language
is not intended to add to, interpret, or relieve a duty imposed by Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR).
It is essential for persons using this handbook to become familiar with and apply the pertinent parts of 14 CFR and the
Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM). The AIM is available online at www.faa.gov. The current Flight Standards
Service airman training and testing material and learning statements for all airman certificates and ratings can be obtained
from www.faa.gov.
