Regulation Text
(a) This section applies to propeller-driven, small airplanes having standard airworthiness certificates that are designed for “agricultural aircraft operations” (as defined in § 137.3 of this chapter, as effective on January 1, 1966) or for dispensing fire fighting materials.
(b) If the Airplane Flight Manual, or other approved manual material information, markings, or placards for the airplane indicate that the airplane has not been shown to comply with the noise limits under part 36 of this chapter, no person may operate that airplane, except—
(1) To the extent necessary to accomplish the work activity directly associated with the purpose for which it is designed;
(2) To provide flight crewmember training in the special purpose operation for which the airplane is designed; and
(3) To conduct “nondispensing aerial work operations” in accordance with the requirements under § 137.29(c) of this chapter.
The short answer
(14 CFR § 91.815) For propeller-driven small airplanes with standard airworthiness certificates designed for agricultural aircraft operations or fire-fighting dispensing, if the manual or placards show the airplane has not met part 36 noise limits, it may be operated only for the limited purposes listed in the section.
Research Notes
Common Questions
Which airplanes does § 91.815 cover?
Propeller-driven, small airplanes holding standard airworthiness certificates that are designed for “agricultural aircraft operations” (per § 137.3) or for dispensing fire-fighting materials.
“This section applies to propeller-driven, small airplanes having standard airworthiness certificates that are designed for ‘agricultural aircraft operations’ ... or for dispensing fire fighting materials.” — 14 CFR § 91.815(a)
If the airplane hasn’t shown part 36 noise compliance, when can it still fly?
Only to accomplish work directly associated with its design purpose, to provide flight crewmember training in that special-purpose operation, and to conduct “nondispensing aerial work operations” under § 137.29(c).
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AOA's Decoded pages are plain-English interpretation for training and reference. They are not legal advice and do not replace the official regulation. Always confirm current requirements against the authoritative source before acting.