Plane Sense General Aviation Information
What is a Plane Sense?
" Plane Sense" is a term often used in aviation to refer to a pilot's overall knowledge of the aircraft they are flying, including its capabilities, limitations, and operating procedures. It encompasses various topics, including aerodynamics, aircraft systems, navigation, communication, weather, and regulations. A good "plane sense" is crucial for pilots to ensure safe and efficient flights. It allows them to make informed decisions and take appropriate actions in various situations, including emergencies. Proper training and experience are essential for developing a strong plane sense, and pilots are expected to update their knowledge and skills throughout their careers continually. This handbook is published by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
The FAA is the executive agency responsible for aviation oversight in the United States. The FAA aims to provide the world's safest, most efficient aerospace system. The FAA is responsible for the safety of civil aviation. The Federal Aviation Act of 1958 created the agency under Federal Aviation Agency. The FAA adopted its present name in 1967 when it became a part of the Department of Transportation (DOT). The FAA's major roles include:
• Regulating civil aviation to promote safety
• Encouraging and developing civil aeronautics, including new aviation technology
• Developing and operating a system of air traffic control and navigation for both civil and military aircraft
• Researching and developing the National Airspace System (NAS) and civil aeronautics
• Developing and carrying out programs to control aircraft noise and other environmental effects of civil aviation
• Regulating U.S. commercial space transportation
FAA Headquarters is located in Washington, D.C. However, the FAA is organized into eight geographical regions, and the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center is located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. FAA regions are organized as follows:
• Alaskan (Alaska).
• Central (Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Missouri, Nebraska, Tennessee).
• Eastern (Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia).
• Great Lakes (Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Wisconsin).
• Northwest Mountain (Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming).
• Southern Region (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Virgin Islands).
• Southwest Region (Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas).
• Western-Pacific Region (Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada).
Each region has several Flight Standards District Offices (FSDOs). Your local FSDO is yours. The best resource for questions about aircraft ownership, operation, maintenance, regulatory compliance, and others. Issues. FAA inspectors are generally assigned to an FSDO. Aviation safety inspectors (ASIs) can assist you with this. Issues related to the operation of your aircraft, airman certification, maintenance, and other general questions.