Definition
A set of FAA-issued authorizations, limitations, and procedures that define exactly how a specific commercial operator (such as an air carrier or charter company) is permitted to conduct its operations. OpSpecs are issued by the FAA to certificate holders operating under Parts 121, 125, 135, and similar regulations, and they have the force of regulation for that operator.
Plain English
A custom rulebook the FAA gives to a commercial flying company that spells out what that company is allowed to do, where it can fly, what equipment it must use, and how it must do certain procedures.
Context Anchor
Seen in instrument procedure and company operations discussions when a procedure, minimum, airport, or type of operation is allowed only if the operator’s OpSpecs authorize it.
Derivation
Short for 'Operations Specifications.' The term is a working contraction used routinely in airline and FAA paperwork.
Why Pilots Care
Pilots and operators must adhere to the exact authorizations and limitations in their OpSpecs to remain legal; deviations can ground flights or trigger enforcement action.
Intuition Check
Do not think of OpSpecs as general advice for all pilots. OpSpecs are specific FAA authorizations and limits for a particular operator.
Example Sentence 1
The captain checked the company's OpSpecs to confirm the airport was approved for their operation that night.
Example Sentence 2
Any new avionics installation must be approved and listed in the OpSpecs before the aircraft can be used for revenue operations.