Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM)
Operating reference
Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM)
Current FAA operating guidance, procedures, and flight information with regularly published changes.
- Publication number
- AIM
- Publisher
- Federal Aviation Administration
- Access
- Free official publication
- Best for
- Operating reference
Purpose and audience
About this handbook
The AIM is the FAA’s primary nonregulatory reference for flight information, procedures, air traffic control, and operational safety.
Who should use it
Pilots, instructors, dispatchers, and aviation professionals who need current U.S. operating procedures and guidance.
Key subjects
What you’ll learn
Air traffic control procedures
Airport and airspace operations
Navigation and communication
Safety, medical, and pilot-controller guidance
Practical study
How to use it in training
Study the chapters tied to your certificate or current operation, then use the index to answer scenario-based questions. Recheck the online edition whenever procedures may have changed.
- Set an objective. Choose the chapter or topic that supports the next lesson, task, or operating decision.
- Read actively. Mark definitions, diagrams, limitations, and questions to discuss with an instructor or qualified professional.
- Apply the material. Work a scenario, calculation, briefing, simulator exercise, or supervised practical task.
- Verify current information. Check regulations, official notices, charts, and approved aircraft or equipment documents.
Edition awareness
Revision and authority notes
The AIM receives scheduled changes. The official publication page provides the current basic edition and incorporated changes; downloaded copies can become outdated.
Directory review date: August 1, 2026
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