Official FAA Pilot Documents

The foundation of aviation knowledge. Covers aerodynamics, flight instruments, weather, navigation, aircraft performance, and aeronautical decision-making. Required reading for all pilot certificates.

Practical guidance on flying techniques, maneuvers, and flight training procedures. Covers ground operations, basic flight maneuvers, slow flight, stalls, spins, takeoffs, landings, and emergency operations.

Comprehensive guide to instrument flight. Covers attitude instrument flying, navigation systems, IFR flight procedures, and instrument approaches. Essential for instrument rating training.

In-depth coverage of IFR procedures, departure procedures, enroute operations, arrivals, and approaches. Goes beyond the basics for advanced IFR operations.

The CFI's bible. Covers learning theory, effective teaching techniques, evaluation methods, and risk management instruction. Required for all flight and ground instructor certificates.

The official guide to basic flight information and ATC procedures. Covers air navigation, airspace, ATC, emergency procedures, safety of flight, medical facts, and the pilot/controller glossary.

The regulations governing pilot certification: eligibility, aeronautical knowledge, flight proficiency, and experience requirements for all pilot certificates and ratings.

General operating and flight rules applicable to all aircraft operations. Covers preflight requirements, VFR/IFR rules, equipment requirements, and maintenance.

Official definitions of terms used in the Air Traffic Control system. Essential for understanding ATC communications and aviation terminology.

Defines the aeronautical knowledge, risk management, and flight proficiency standards for the Private Pilot certificate. This is your checkride blueprint.

Standards for the Instrument Rating practical test. Covers IFR flight planning, navigation, approaches, holds, and emergency operations under IMC.

Standards for Commercial Pilot certification. Covers advanced maneuvers, complex operations, and commercial decision-making requirements.

Supplementary guidance on using the ACS for test preparation. Explains the ACS format, codes, and how to interpret the standards.

Practical test standards for the Flight Instructor certificate (CFI). Covers fundamentals of instruction, technical subject areas, and flight proficiency.

Test standards for the Certified Flight Instructor - Instrument (CFII) rating for airplane and helicopter.

Practical test standards for the Airline Transport Pilot certificate with rotorcraft/helicopter rating.

Comprehensive guide to identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks in flight operations. Covers hazard identification, PAVE checklist, 3P model, and scenario-based training.

Advisory circular providing guidance on pilot and instructor certification standards, knowledge test procedures, and Part 61 requirements.

Guidance for pilots using BasicMed privileges and for state-licensed physicians providing BasicMed examinations.

Complete guide to reading and interpreting FAA aeronautical charts. Explains all symbols, colors, and information on VFR and IFR charts.

Airport/facility directory information including airport data, communications, NAVAIDs, and special notices. Available for all US regions.

Free digital VFR sectional charts covering all of the United States. Updated on a 56-day cycle.

Comprehensive guide to helicopter aerodynamics, systems, flight maneuvers, and emergency procedures. Required for rotorcraft pilot training.

Complete guide to glider/sailplane aerodynamics, weather, soaring techniques, and emergency procedures.

Covers hot air and gas balloon operations including weather, equipment, launch/landing procedures, and emergency operations.

Operations handbook for seaplanes, skiplanes, and float-equipped helicopters. Covers water operations, regulations, and unique procedures.

Comprehensive guide to weight and balance principles, calculations, and documentation. Essential for safe flight operations.

The definitive FAA guide to aviation weather. Covers atmosphere, weather patterns, hazards, weather services, and interpretation of weather products.

Advisory circular explaining available aviation weather products, services, and how to use them for flight planning.