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The Pilots Desk
US-FAA14 CFR 135.180

Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System

Read the official rule

This regulation requires turbine-powered airplanes with 10 to 30 passenger seats operating under Part 135 to have an approved Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) installed. This requirement took effect after December 31, 1995. If the aircraft has TCAS II (the more advanced version), it must be compatible with units meeting TSO C-119 standards so different aircraft can coordinate collision avoidance maneuvers.

The airplane flight manual must include specific TCAS information: procedures for using the equipment, guidance on how the flight crew should respond to TCAS alerts, and documentation of all input sources (like transponders and altitude encoders) that must be working for the system to function properly.

This ensures pilots operating these commuter and air taxi aircraft have collision avoidance technology and know how to use it effectively, significantly improving safety in busy airspace.

*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.*

This is an original plain-English explanation for training and reference, not legal advice and not for navigation. Always rely on the current official rule linked above. Last reviewed June 20, 2026.