General

This regulation serves as a roadmap directing Part 135 operators to different performance rules based on their aircraft type. It divides aircraft into categories—reciprocating vs. turbine engines, large vs. small, transport vs. nontransport—and points each to specific sections they must follow for takeoff, landing, and en route performance requirements.

Key practical points: Operators must use their Airplane Flight Manual performance data and may interpolate when conditions differ from published data. For reciprocating engine large transport aircraft, takeoff weight cannot exceed runway limits after applying temperature correction factors from historical Civil Air Regulations. The regulation allows some flexibility—the FAA can authorize deviations in operations specifications when literal compliance isn't necessary for safety, and the standard 10-mile obstacle clearance corridor can be reduced to 5 miles for up to 20 miles when operating VFR or with reliable navigation aids identifying terrain.

This essentially establishes which detailed performance rules apply to your specific aircraft type.

*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.*