Load manifest: All certificate holders

This regulation specifies what information must be included in the load manifest for Part 121 air carrier flights. The manifest documents the airplane's weight and balance at takeoff, including weights of the aircraft itself, fuel and oil, cargo and baggage, passengers, and crew.

Critically, it must show the maximum allowable takeoff weight for that specific flight—whichever is most restrictive among: the runway's limit (accounting for conditions like altitude, temperature, and wind), en route performance requirements, the destination airport's maximum landing weight, and landing distance limitations at both destination and alternate airports.

The manifest must also demonstrate that weight was calculated using approved procedures, that the center of gravity falls within approved limits per an approved loading schedule, and include passenger names (unless tracked separately). This document ensures the flight operates within all applicable weight and balance limitations for safe operation from takeoff through landing.

*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.*