Definition
AOM/POH refers collectively to the aircraft-specific manual published by the manufacturer that contains the operating limitations, procedures, performance data, and systems descriptions for a particular airplane. The Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH) is the term used for general aviation aircraft manufactured after 1975 under the GAMA standardized format, while Aircraft Operating Manual (AOM) is a broader term used for some aircraft, particularly older models or those outside the GAMA format. Both serve as the authoritative reference for how to operate that specific aircraft safely and legally.
Plain English
The official manufacturer's manual for a specific aircraft. It tells the pilot how that airplane works, what it can and cannot do, and the correct procedures for operating it -- from startup to emergencies.
Context Anchor
Seen when FAA material tells the pilot to check the airplane’s manual for the correct procedure, such as during a blocked static system or other abnormal situation.
Why Pilots Care
Pilots must follow the exact procedures in this manual to stay within safe limits and handle failures correctly.
Intuition Check
Do not treat the AOM/POH as a general aviation textbook. It is the operating reference for a specific airplane, and another airplane’s manual may give different procedures.
Example Sentence 1
Before the checkride, the student reviewed the emergency procedures section of the POH for the Cessna 172.
Example Sentence 2
All airspeed limitations in the AOM must be respected during flight.