Commuter category airplanes performance operating limitations

This regulation sets performance limits for operating commuter category airplanes under Part 135. You must comply with all takeoff weight limits in the approved Airplane Flight Manual and cannot exceed weights that would prevent clearing obstacles by at least 35 feet vertically or 200 feet horizontally within airport boundaries (300 feet beyond boundaries).

The same landing distance requirements that apply to turbine-powered large transport aircraft (§§135.385 and 135.387) also apply to commuter category airplanes, regardless of engine type.

When calculating these weights and distances, you must account for actual conditions: the specific runway in use, airport elevation, runway gradient, temperature, and wind components at takeoff time.

The regulation assumes no banking below 50 feet during takeoff and maximum 15-degree banks thereafter, as shown in the flight manual's net takeoff flight path data. These requirements ensure adequate safety margins during critical flight phases with realistic performance calculations.

*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.*