Definition
The Pilot's Operating Handbook is the manufacturer-produced document that contains the operating procedures, limitations, performance data, systems descriptions, and emergency procedures for a specific make and model of aircraft. For aircraft certified after 1975, it is generally formatted to the GAMA (General Aviation Manufacturers Association) standard and, when an FAA-approved Airplane Flight Manual is required, the POH and AFM are typically combined into a single document.
Plain English
The official book from the aircraft manufacturer that tells the pilot exactly how to operate that specific airplane -- how to start it, fly it, what its limits are, how it performs, and what to do in an emergency.
Context Anchor
Pilots use the POH during training, preflight planning, performance calculations, checklist review, and any time they need the official information for that airplane.
Why Pilots Care
Pilots are required to know and follow their aircraft's POH to operate legally and safely; it is the primary source for all operating limitations and procedures.
Intuition Check
Do not treat the POH as general flying advice. It applies to a specific airplane model, and sometimes to a specific equipment setup or serial-number range.
Example Sentence 1
Before the cross-country flight, she pulled the POH from the seat pocket and used the performance charts to calculate takeoff distance for the day's temperature and field elevation.
Example Sentence 2
During an engine failure drill, the crew followed the exact steps listed in the POH emergency procedures section.