Definition
An official document issued by an aviation authority (such as the FAA) or other recognized source that contains regulatory, procedural, operational, or reference information used by pilots, controllers, and aviation personnel.
Plain English
An official aviation document. When you see PUB in FAA materials, it just means a published document — like a handbook, chart, advisory circular, or manual.
Context Anchor
Seen in FAA acronym lists, abbreviation sections, and references to aviation documents used during training or flight planning.
Derivation
From the Latin publicare, meaning 'to make public.' A publication is something officially released so others can read and use it. In aviation, it usually means a document released by the FAA or another authority.
Why Pilots Care
Pilots refer to official publications to ensure they follow current regulations and procedures.
Intuition Check
PUB does not mean just any book, article, or casual write-up here. In this context, it points to an aviation publication used as an official source of information.
Example Sentence 1
The NOTAM directed pilots to consult the relevant FAA pub for updated approach procedures.
Example Sentence 2
Updates to the PUB are announced through NOTAMs to keep pilots informed of changes.