Definition
A specific section of Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Part 135, that restricts flight crewmember activities during critical phases of flight. It prohibits non-essential duties — such as eating, non-essential radio calls, or non-essential conversation — while the aircraft is taxiing, taking off, landing, or operating below 10,000 feet (excluding cruise flight).
Plain English
It's the rule that tells pilots flying for charter or commuter operators to keep their attention on flying — no eating, chatting, or distractions — during the busy and dangerous parts of a flight.
Context Anchor
You may see this citation in AIM glossary material, FAA references, company procedures, and discussions of sterile cockpit rules for Part 135 operations.
Derivation
CFR' stands for Code of Federal Regulations — the official compilation of U.S. federal rules. Title 14 covers Aeronautics and Space. Part 135 covers commuter and on-demand commercial operations. Section 135.100 is the specific paragraph addressing flight crewmember duties.
Why Pilots Care
It ensures crew members stay focused on flight duties rather than non-essential tasks, directly supporting safe operations.
Intuition Check
Do not read “14 CFR section 135.100” as a checklist step or an aircraft procedure. It is a legal rule citation that points to a specific FAA regulation.
Example Sentence 1
Under 14 CFR section 135.100, the captain reminded the first officer that the briefing about lunch plans would have to wait until they were above 10,000 feet.
Example Sentence 2
During the check ride the examiner asked how 14 CFR section 135.100 applies when one crew member needs to leave the flight deck.