Aircraft certificated after which date were required to have an approved flight manual?

The requirement for an approved flight manual for aircraft certificated after a specific date is tied to the regulations established by the FAA, particularly under Part 23 and Part 25 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR). March 1, 1979, is the date after which all aircraft must have an approved flight manual. This requirement ensures that pilots have access to standardized, crucial information concerning the operation of the aircraft, including limitations, performance data, and emergency procedures, which enhances safety and operational consistency.

Subsequent regulations added more requirements and clarifications, but the key milestone is indeed March 1, 1979, when the directive for an approved flight manual for all newly certificated aircraft came into effect. This foundational regulation has been critical in establishing a standard for flight operations and safety across the aviation industry.