Definition
A metal or composite plate permanently affixed to the exterior of an aircraft that displays key identification and certification information, including the manufacturer's name, model designation, serial number, and type certificate data.
Plain English
A small plate fixed to the outside of the aircraft that lists who built it, what model it is, and its serial number, so the aircraft can be positively identified.
Context Anchor
Seen during the preflight walk-around, usually on the outside of the fuselage near an entrance or near the tail area, depending on the aircraft.
Derivation
“Data” means facts or information, and “plate” means a small flat piece used to display or attach something. In aviation, a data plate is a small permanent plate that carries the aircraft’s identifying facts.
Why Pilots Care
Verifies the aircraft's identity and confirms it meets regulatory requirements before flight.
Intuition Check
Do not think of this as a performance chart or a removable label. An external data plate is a permanent aircraft ID plate, not a source of takeoff, landing, or weight information.
Example Sentence 1
During preflight, the pilot checked the external data plate to confirm the serial number matched the aircraft's registration certificate.
Example Sentence 2
An illegible or missing external data plate must be corrected before the aircraft can be considered airworthy for flight.