Contents of operations specifications

This regulation specifies what must be included in operations specifications—the detailed operating authority document the FAA issues to commercial air carriers. The required contents vary by operation type (domestic/flag/commuter, supplemental, or on-demand).

All must include basic information like the principal base of operations, business names, and FAA contact points. They must list authorized aircraft by type, registration, and serial number—and carriers can only operate aircraft that appear on this list. Operations specifications also detail authorized routes and areas, airport limitations, maintenance time limits, weight and balance procedures, and whether the carrier can transport hazardous materials.

For scheduled operations, the specs must list regular, alternate, provisional, and refueling airports. The FAA may add any other items it deems necessary. These specifications essentially define the boundaries of what each certificate holder is legally permitted to do.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*