The Aircraft Flight Manual (AFM) is a crucial document tied to the Certificate of Airworthiness. It outlines the limitations under which the aircraft is deemed airworthy. Additionally, it provides essential instructions and information for flight crew members, ensuring safe aircraft operation, as specified in ICAO Annex 6.
An AFM is created by the aircraft manufacturer and contains comprehensive details on how to operate the aircraft effectively. It includes recommended procedures for normal, abnormal, and emergency situations, along with expected aircraft performance when these guidelines are followed. This manual is an essential part of the aircraft’s inventory and must be onboard for every flight, unless the National Aviation Authority (NAA) has officially accepted that the operator’s Operations Manual covers all necessary AFM information.
Each AFM is tailored to the specific aircraft, reflecting its unique equipment and modifications. In practice, commercial operators often receive permission from the NAA to fly without the AFM on board. Keeping the AFM updated is a vital responsibility of the flight operations department. This control process ensures that any related documents, such as the Operations Manual, Emergency and Abnormal Checklists, and Quick Reference Handbooks (QRH), are also revised whenever the AFM is amended.
