What publication would you consult to determine an aircraft's type design and its limitations?

The Type Certificate Data Sheets are essential documents that provide detailed information about an aircraft's type design, including its limitations, specifications, operating requirements, and various other critical factors. This publication is issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and serves as an official record of the aircraft's design parameters as approved during the type certification process.

By consulting the Type Certificate Data Sheets, aviation mechanics and technicians can ascertain the specific design characteristics of various aircraft models, which is crucial for maintenance, modification, or operational purposes. This reference ensures that maintenance practices align with the approved specifications and limitations, thus promoting safety and regulatory compliance.

In contrast, while the Aircraft Manufacturer's Handbook may contain useful general information about aircraft operation and features, it does not primarily serve as the authoritative source for type design and limitations. Similarly, the Federal Aviation Regulations provide broader regulatory guidance and requirements applicable to aviation operations but do not detail individual aircraft designs. The Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook focuses on maintenance procedures and practices rather than type design specifics. Thus, the Type Certificate Data Sheets emerge as the definitive source for this kind of information.