Definition
A reference manual that provides operating procedures, performance data, limitations, and other information needed to operate or maintain an aircraft or its systems. In aviation, the term most often refers to documents such as the Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH), the Airplane Flight Manual (AFM), or the Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM).
Plain English
A book of instructions and information that tells you how to operate or care for an aircraft and its equipment.
Context Anchor
Seen in aircraft documents, training assignments, FAA study materials, and maintenance or operating references.
Derivation
From the Old English 'hand' plus 'book' — literally a book small enough to be held in the hand. The sense carries through to aviation: a practical reference kept close at hand for quick consultation.
Why Pilots Care
The aircraft's handbook contains the limitations, procedures, and performance numbers a pilot is legally and operationally required to follow. Knowing where to find information in it is part of safe flight.
Intuition Check
Do not assume “handbook” means an informal or optional guide. In aviation, a handbook may be an important reference, and some handbooks contain information that must be followed for safe or legal operation.
Example Sentence 1
Before the flight, she checked the handbook to confirm the maximum allowable crosswind for landing.
Example Sentence 2
Before the checkride, she reviewed the aircraft's Pilot Operating Handbook for weight and balance calculations.