Distribution and availability

This regulation requires Part 121 air carriers to distribute their operations manual to the right people and ensure those manuals stay current.

The certificate holder must provide copies (or relevant sections) of the manual to ground operations and maintenance personnel, crewmembers, and FAA representatives assigned to oversee their operations. Each recipient is responsible for keeping their copy up-to-date with any changes or additions the company issues, and must have the manual accessible while performing their duties.

The carrier has flexibility in how it distributes the maintenance portions of the manual—printed copies or electronic formats are acceptable, as long as the Administrator approves the method and the information is retrievable in English.

In practice, this ensures everyone has access to current procedures and can reference them when needed. Modern carriers typically use electronic flight bags and online systems to meet this requirement efficiently.

*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.*