Federal Aviation Regulations Practice Test 2026 – Complete Exam Prep

The operating limitations for an aircraft are found in the current, FAA-approved flight manual. This manual, often referred to as the Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH) or Airplane Flight Manual (AFM), contains essential information regarding the aircraft's handling, performance specifications, weight and balance limitations, and other operational guidelines mandated by the FAA. This documentation is critical for pilots to ensure they operate the aircraft safely within the parameters established for that specific model.

Other sources such as a pilot's personal logbook serve different purposes, primarily documenting flight time and experiences rather than providing operational limitations. Exterior markings on the aircraft can provide valuable information, such as registration numbers and placards that indicate certain limitations, but they are not comprehensive in the way the flight manual is. Relying solely on air traffic control for this information is insufficient, as air traffic control provides navigation and traffic advisories rather than detailed operational limitations unique to each aircraft.