Advisory Circular (AC)

Computerized Aeroplane Flight Manual Performance Systems

File No. 5009-6-525 AC No. 525-019
RDIMS No. 528486-V3 Issue No. 01
Issuing Branch Aircraft Certification Effective Date 2004-12-01

1.0 Introduction

1.1 Purpose
1.2 Guidance Applicability
1.3 Description of Changes
1.4 Termination

2.0 References

2.1 Reference Documents
2.2 Cancelled Document

3.0 Background

4.0 Acceptable Means Of Compliance

5.0 Headquarters Contact

Appendix 1 - Computerized Aeroplane Flight Manual

1.0 Introduction

1.1 Purpose

The purpose of this Advisory Circular (AC) is to provide guidance for the airworthiness approval of Computerized Aeroplane Flight Manual (AFM) Performance Systems. These means are not mandatory. An applicant may elect to use any other means found to be acceptable by Transport Canada for compliance with the requirements of the Airworthiness Manual (AWM). The terms "shall" and "must" used herein apply only to an applicant who chooses to follow this particular method without deviations.

This advisory material is presently the subject of international harmonisation, and this AC is issued for use during type approval programs. When harmonisation is completed, this AC will be amended, or revoked and the corresponding harmonized advisory material adopted.

1.2 Guidance Applicability

This document is applicable to all Transport Canada personnel, delegates and industry.

1.3 Description of Changes

This document, formerly AMA No. 525.1581/2A, is reissued as an AC. With the exception of minor editorial changes, the content is unaltered.

1.4 Termination

This document does not have a terminating action. It will however, be reviewed periodically for suitability of content.

2.0 References

2.1 Reference Documents

It is intended that the following reference materials be used in conjunction with this document:

(a) Chapter 525 of the Airworthiness Manual (AWM) - Transport Category Aeroplanes; and
 
(b) Joint Aviation Authorities (JAA) JAR 25 - Computerized Aeroplane Flight Manual - Appendix 1 of JAA Draft AMJ 25.1581, dated October 27, 1995 (NPA 25G-255).

2.2 Cancelled Document

As of the effective date of this document, AMA No. 525.1581/2A dated 15 November 1999 is cancelled.

3.0 Background

Performance data required by the standards are usually provided in the form of graphical charts in the AFM. These charts can be difficult to use and are prone to reading errors. Many aircraft operators have reduced and/or simplified the AFM charts to a form readily usable by the aircrew. Often this has involved the manual reading of AFM charts and formulation into computer data files. For some time, aircraft manufacturers and operators have been aware of the increased benefits, which would occur if the performance data could be produced by an easily-used computer program. This would minimise the errors which can occur in first producing the charts (manufacturer) and then reading and reformulating them into computer data files (operator).

This AC is intended to provide guidance for the airworthiness approval of an AFM, which contains required information in the form of a Computerized AFM Performance System. No determination has been made or guidance provided on the extent of AFM performance, which can be in the form of a Computerized AFM Performance System.

4.0 Acceptable Means Of Compliance

Transport Canada accepts as a means of compliance for the approval of Computerized Aeroplane Flight Manual Appendix 1 of JAA Draft AMJ 25.1581, dated October 27, 1995 (NPA 25G-255).

A copy of the draft AMJ Appendix 1 is attached for user's convenience. In reading this document for the purpose of Canadian certification any references to JAA, their standards or operating rules shall be replaced by Transport Canada and the appropriate CARs and standards of the Airworthiness Manual.

5.0 Headquarters Contact

For more information please contact:

Policy Standards Coordinator (AARDH/P)
Phone: (613) 990-3923
Facsimile: (613) 996-9178
E-mail: AARDH-P@tc.gc.ca

Original signed by Maher Khouzam

Maher Khouzam
Chief, Regulatory Standards
Aircraft Certification Branch

Appendix 1 - Computerized Aeroplane Flight Manual