FAA-S-8081-10C

U.S. Department

of Transportation 

Federal Aviation 

Administration

AIRCRAFT DISPATCHER

Practical Test Standards 

June 2008 

FLIGHT STANDARDS SERVICE 

Washington, DC 20591
AIRCRAFT DISPATCHER 

Practical Test Standards 

2008 

FLIGHT STANDARDS SERVICE 

Washington, DC 20591 

NOTE 

Material in FAA-S-8081-10C will be effective June 1, 2008. All previous 

editions of the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test Standards will be 

obsolete as of this date. 
FOREWARD 

The Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test Standards book has been 

published by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to establish the 

standards for the aircraft dispatcher certification practical test. Qualified 

FAA inspectors and designated dispatcher examiners shall conduct 

practical tests in compliance with these standards. Instructors and 

applicants should find these standards helpful in practical test 

preparation. 

__________________________________ 

Joseph K. Tintera, Manager 

Regulatory Support Division 

Flight Standards Service 
i FAA-S-8081-10B

CONTENTS 

INTRODUCTION.................................................................................1

 General Information.......................................................................1

 Practical Test Standard Concept ...................................................2 

 Practical Test Standards Description.............................................2 

 Use of the Practical Test Standard Book.......................................4 

 Special Emphasis Areas................................................................5 

 Practical Test Prerequisites ...........................................................6 

 Equipment and Documents Required for the Practical Test..........6 

 Examiner Responsibility ................................................................7 

 Satisfactory Performance ..............................................................7 

 Unsatisfactory Performance ..........................................................8 

 Letter of Discontinuance................................................................8 

 Dispatch Resource Management (DRM).......................................9 

 Aeronautical Decision Making and Risk Management ..................9 

AREAs OF OPERATION: 

I. FLIGHT PLANNING/DISPATCH RELEASE ........................1-1 

 A. TASK: Regulatory Requirements......................................1-1 

 B. TASK: Meteorology...........................................................1-1 

 C. TASK: Weather Observations, Analysis, and Forecasts ..1-2 

 D. TASK: Weather Related Hazards.....................................1-3 

 E. TASK: Aircraft Systems, Performance, and Limitations....1-3 

 F. TASK: Navigation and Aircraft Navigation Systems..........1-5 

 G. TASK: Practical Dispatch Applications .............................1-6 

 H. TASK: Manuals, Handbooks, and Other Written 

 Guidance...............................................................1-6 

II. PREFLIGHT, TAKEOFF, AND DEPARTURE......................1-7 

 A. TASK: Air Traffic Control Procedures ...............................1-7 

 B. TASK: Airports, Crew, and Company Procedures ............1-7 

III. INFLIGHT PROCEDURES ...................................................1-8 

 A. TASK: Routing, Re-Routing, and Flight Plan Filing ..........1-8 

 B. TASK: En Route Communication Procedures and 

 Requirements........................................................1-8 

IV. ARRIVAL, APPROACH, AND LANDING PROCEDURES ..1-9 

 

 TASK: ATC and Air Navigation Procedures ..........................1-9 
FAA-S-8081-10B ii

V. POST FLIGHT PROCEDURES ......................................... 1-10 

 A. TASK: Communication Procedures and Requirements. 1-10 

 B. TASK: Trip Records ....................................................... 1-10 

VI. ABNORMAL AND EMERGENCY PROCEDURES AND... 1-11 

 TASK: Abnormal and Emergency Procedures ................... 1-11 
1 FAA-S-8081-10C 

INTRODUCTION 

General Information 

The Flight Standards Service (AFS) of the Federal Aviation Administration 

(FAA) has developed this practical test as the standard that shall be used 

by qualified FAA inspectors and designated examiners when conducting 

the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test. Instructors are expected to use this 

book when preparing applicants for practical tests. Applicants should be 

familiar with this book and refer to these standards during their training. 

Information considered directive in nature is described in this practical test 

standard (PTS) in terms such as “shall” and “must,” indicating the actions 

are mandatory. Guidance information is described in terms such as 

“should” and “may,” indicating the actions are desirable or permissive, but 

not mandatory. 

The FAA gratefully acknowledges the valuable assistance provided by 

many individuals and organizations throughout the aviation community who 

contributed their time and talent in assisting with the revision of these 

practical test standards. 

This PTS may be purchased from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. 

Government Printing Office (GPO), Washington, DC 20402-9325, or from 

GPO’s website at: http://bookstore.gpo.gov. 

This PTS is available for download, in pdf format, from www.faa.gov. 

This PTS is published by the U.S. Department of Transportation, 

Federal Aviation Administration, Airman Testing Standards Branch, 

AFS-630, P.O. Box 25082, Oklahoma City, OK 73125. 

Comments regarding this PTS may be sent to the following e-mail address: 

AFS630comments@faa.gov. 
FAA-S-8081-10C 2

Practical Test Standard Concept 

Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 65 specifies the 

subject areas in which knowledge and skill must be demonstrated by the 

applicant before the issuance of an Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate. The 

CFRs provide the flexibility to permit the FAA to publish practical test 

standards containing the AREAs OF OPERATION and specific TASKs in 

which competency shall be demonstrated. The FAA will revise this book 

whenever it is determined that changes are needed in the interest of 

safety. Adherence to provisions of the regulations and the practical 

test standards is mandatory for the evaluation of aircraft dispatcher 

applicants. 

Practical Test Standards Description 

This test book contains the Practical Test Standards for Aircraft Dispatcher. 

The Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test Standards includes the AREAS OF 

OPERATION and TASKS for the initial issuance of an Aircraft Dispatcher 

Certificate. 

AREAS OF OPERATION are phases of the practical test arranged in a 

logical sequence within the standard. They begin with FLIGHT 

PLANNING/DISPATCH RELEASE and end with ABNORMAL AND 

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES. The examiner, however, may conduct the 

practical test in any sequence that will result in a complete and efficient 

test. 

TASKs are titles of knowledge areas or procedures appropriate to an 

AREA OF OPERATION. 

REFERENCEs identify the publication(s) that describe(s) the TASK. 

Descriptions of TASKs are not included in these standards because this 

information can be found in the current issue of the listed reference. 

Publications other than those listed may be used for references if their 

content conveys substantially the same meaning as the referenced 

publications. Except where appropriate (e.g., pertinent CFRs), references 

listed in this document are NOT meant to supersede or otherwise replace 

manufacturer or other FAA-approved or acceptable data, but to serve as 

general information and study material resources. 

Objectives list the important elements that must be satisfactorily 

performed to demonstrate competency in a TASK. 

NOTE is used to emphasize special considerations required in the AREA 

OF OPERATION or TASK. 
3 FAA-S-8081-10C 

The examiner determines that the applicant meets the TASK Objective 

through the demonstration of competency in all elements of knowledge 

and/or skill unless otherwise noted. The Objectives of the TASKs in certain 

AREAs OF OPERATION, such as arrival, approach, and landing 

procedures, include only knowledge elements. Objectives of TASKs in 

AREAs OF OPERATION that include elements of skill, as well as 

knowledge, may also include common errors, which the applicant shall be 

able to describe, recognize, analyze, and correct. 

This practical test standard is based on the following references: 

14 CFR part 1 Definitions and Abbreviations 

14 CFR part 25 Airworthiness Standards: Transport Category 

 Airplanes 

14 CFR part 61 Certification: Pilots, Flight Instructors, and Ground 

Instructors 

14 CFR part 65 Certification: Airmen Other Than Flight Crewmembers

14 CFR part 71 Designation of Class A, B, C, D, and E Airspace 

Areas; Airways; Air Traffic Service; Routes; and 

Reporting Points 

14 CFR part 91 General Operating and Flight Rules 

14 CFR part 121 Operating Requirements: Domestic, Flag, and 

Supplemental Operations 

14 CFR part 139 Certification and Operations: Land Airports Serving 

Certain Air Carriers 

49 CFR part 175 Hazardous Materials Regulations; Carriage by Aircraft 

49 CFR part 830 Notification and Reporting of Aircraft Accidents or 

Incidents and Overdue Aircraft, and Preservation of 

Aircraft Wreckage, Mail, Cargo, and Records 

49 CFR part 1544 Aircraft Operator Security 

FAA-H-8083-1 Aircraft Weight and Balance Handbook 

FAA-H-8083-15 Instrument Flying Handbook 

FAA-H-8083-25 Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge 

FAA-H-8261-1 Instrument Procedures Handbook 

FAA Order 8260.3 United States Standard for Terminal Instrument 

Procedures (TERPS) 

AC 00-2 Advisory Circular Checklist 

AC 00-6 Aviation Weather 

AC 00-45 Aviation Weather Services 

AC 20-29 Use of Aircraft Fuel Anti-Icing Additives 

AC 20-117 Hazards Following Ground Deicing and Ground 

 Operations in Conditions Conducive to Aircraft Icing 

AC 60-22 Aeronautical Decision-Making 

AC 60-28 English Language Skill Standards Required by 14 

CFR parts 61, 63, and 65 

AC 61-84 Role of Preflight Preparation 

AC 91-51 Effect of Icing on Aircraft Control and Airplane Deice 

 Anti-ice Systems 

AC 91-74 Pilot Guide Flight in Icing Conditions 
FAA-S-8081-10C 4

AC 90-79 Recommended Practices and Procedures for the Use 

of Long-Range Navigation 

AC 90-91 North American Route Program (NRP) 

AC 90-94 Guidelines for Using Global Positioning System 

Equipment for IFR En Route and Terminal Operations 

and for Nonprecision Instrument Approaches in the 

U.S. National Airspace System 

AC 91-43 Unreliable Airspeed Indicators 

AC 91-70 Oceanic Operations 

AC 120-27 Aircraft Weight and Balance Control 

AC 120-28 Criteria for Approval of Category III Landing Weather 

Minima for Takeoff, Landing, and Rollout 

AC 120-29 Criteria for Approval of Category I and Category II 

Weather Minima for Approach 

AC 120-57 Surface Movement Guidance System 

AC 120-60 Ground Deicing and Anti-icing Program 

AC 121-26 Airports—Required Data 

AC 121-32 Dispatch Resource Management Training 

AFD Airport/Facility Directory

AIM Aeronautical Information Manual 

CDL Configuration Deviation List 

DP Departure Procedure 

IAP Instrument Approach Procedure 

IFIM International Flight Information Manual 

MEL Minimum Equipment List 

NOTAM Notice to Airmen 

ODP Obstacle Departure Procedure 

SID Standard Instrument Departure Procedure 

STAR Standard Terminal Arrival Route

OTHER En Route High and Low Altitude Charts, Terminal Area 

 Charts, Profile Descent Charts, Operations 

 Specifications 

NOTE: The latest revision of the references should be used. 

Use of the Practical Test Standard Book 

The FAA requires that all Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Tests be conducted 

in accordance with the Aircraft Dispatcher Practical Test Standards and the 

policies set forth in the INTRODUCTION. Applicants shall be evaluated in 

ALL TASKs included in each AREA OF OPERATION of the practical test 

standard unless otherwise noted. 

When using the practical test book, the examiner must evaluate the 

applicant’s knowledge and skill in sufficient depth to determine that the 

standards of performance listed for all TASKs are met. However, when a 

particular Element is not appropriate to the aircraft, its equipment, or 

operational capability, etc., that Element, at the discretion of the examiner, 

may be omitted. It is not intended that the examiner follow the precise 
5 FAA-S-8081-10C 

order in which AREAS OF OPERATION and TASKs appear in the practical 

test standards. The examiner may change the sequence or combine 

TASKs with similar Objectives to conserve time. 

In preparation for each practical test, the examiner shall develop a written 

“plan of action.” The “plan of action” shall include all required TASKs in each 

AREA OF OPERATION. If the Elements in one TASK have already been 

evaluated in another TASK, they need not be repeated. For example, the 

“plan of action” need not include evaluating the applicant on hazardous 

weather conditions or NTSB reporting requirements at the end of the practical 

test if knowledge of that Element was sufficiently demonstrated at the 

beginning of the test. One or more scenarios may be used in testing the 

applicant. The “plan of action” should be written in the order that the 

evaluation will be conducted but maintain the flexibility to be changed due to 

unexpected situations as they arise. It must be complete enough to ensure 

that all the selected TASKs are evaluated. Any TASK selected for 

evaluation during a practical test shall be evaluated in its entirety. 

The Objectives of all TASKs must be demonstrated at some time during 

the practical test. It is of the utmost importance that the examiner 

accurately evaluates the applicant’s ability to perform safely as an aircraft 

dispatcher. 

One of these areas to evaluate is sound judgment in decision-making. 

Although these areas may not be shown under each TASK, they are 

essential to flight safety and shall receive careful evaluation throughout the 

practical test. 

In an automated environment, the examiner must require an applicant to 

demonstrate adequate knowledge and skill in manual flight planning and 

dispatch procedures. Manual validation of an auto-rated release refreshes 

dispatcher skills and ensures computer produced calculations. 

Special Emphasis Areas 

Examiners shall place special emphasis upon areas that are most critical to 

dispatching and flight safety. Among these are: 

1. Positive Operational Control 

2. Aircraft Performance and Driftdown 

3. Weather Requirements for Departure/Destination and if 

 Applicable, Alternates 

4. Hazardous Weather Awareness, Recognition and Avoidance 

5. Aeronautical Decision Making (ADM) 

6. Risk Management Procedures (RMP) 

7. Dispatcher Resource Management (DRM) 

8. Company and TSA Security Procedures 

9. Other areas deemed appropriate to any phase of the 

 practical test 
FAA-S-8081-10C 6

Although these areas may not be specifically addressed under each TASK, 

they are essential to dispatching and flight safety and will be evaluated 

during the practical test. 

Practical Test Prerequisites 

An applicant for an aircraft dispatcher practical test is required by 14 CFR 

part 65 to: 

1. Be at least 23 years of age; 

2. Have passed the required aircraft dispatcher knowledge test within 

the preceding 24 calendar months prior to completion of the 

practical test; and 

3. Have obtained the applicable experience prescribed for the 

Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate under 14 CFR part 65.57 and must 

provide documentary evidence of such experience, or 

4. Have successfully completed an FAA-approved aircraft 

dispatcher-training course within the past 90 days, or received 

revalidation in accordance with 14 CFR part 65.70 (b). 

To be eligible to take the Aircraft Dispatcher Knowledge Test, an applicant 

is required by 14 CFR part 65 to be at least 21 years of age. 

If there are questions concerning English language requirements, refer to 

AC 60-28, English Language Skill Standards Required by 14 CFR parts 61, 

63, and 65, or your local FSDO. Determination that English language 

requirements have been met should be accomplished prior to beginning 

the practical test. 

Equipment and Documents Required for the Practical Test 

The examiner is responsible for supplying weather data and NOTAMs for 

the test when current weather information is not available. 

Materials to be supplied by the applicant, as determined by the examiner: 

1. Aircraft Flight Manual 

2. General Operating Manual and Operations Specifications 

3. En Route Low/High Altitude Charts 

4. Standard Instrument Departures 

5. Standard Terminal Arrival Routes 

6. Standard Instrument Approach Procedures Charts 

7. ATC Flight Plan Form 

8. Navigation Log/Flight Log 

9. Load Manifest Form 

10. Weight and Balance Form 

11. Dispatch Release Form 

12. Aeronautical Information Manual 

13. Computer and Plotter 
7 FAA-S-8081-10C 

14. NOTAM Information 

15. 14 CFR parts 1, 25, 61, 65 Subpart C, 71, 91, 121, and 139 

16. 49 CFR parts 175, 830, and 1544 

17. Completed FAA Form 8400-3, Application for an Airman 

Certificate and/or Rating 

18. Airman Knowledge Test Report 

19. Pilot Certificate (if applicable) 

20. Statement of Graduation Certificate (if applicable) 

21. Identification—Photo/Signature ID 

22. Notice of Disapproval/Letter of Discontinuance (if applicable) 

23. Examiner’s Fee (if applicable) 

NOTE: If the applicant was trained in an FAA-approved dispatcher course, 

materials used in that course may be substituted for company specific 

materials supplied by the applicant. 

Examiner1 Responsibility 

The examiner conducting the practical test is responsible for determining 

that the applicant meets the acceptable standards of knowledge and skill of 

each TASK within the practical test standard. Since there is no formal 

division between the “oral” and “skill” portions of the practical test, this 

becomes an ongoing process throughout the test. Oral questioning, to 

determine the applicant’s knowledge of TASKs and related safety factors, 

should be used judiciously at all times. Examiners shall test to the greatest 

extent practicable the applicant’s correlative abilities, rather than rote 

memorization of facts, throughout the practical test. 

If the examiner determines that a TASK is incomplete or the outcome 

uncertain, the examiner may require the applicant to repeat that TASK, or 

portions of that TASK. This provision has been made in the interest of 

fairness and does not mean that instruction, practice, or the repetition of an 

unsatisfactory TASK is permitted during the certification process. When 

practical, the remaining TASKs of the practical test phase should be 

completed before repeating the questionable TASK. 

NOTE: Where appropriate, the applicant should be allowed to use 

reference material commonly available to a company dispatcher. 

1 The word “examiner” is used throughout these standards to denote either a qualified 

FAA inspector or FAA-designated examiner who conducts the official practical test. 
FAA-S-8081-10C 8

Satisfactory Performance 

Satisfactory performance to meet the requirements for certification is based 

on the applicant’s ability to: 

1. perform the TASKs specified in the AREAs OF OPERATION within 

the approved standards outlined in this test book and the aircraft’s 

performance capabilities and limitations; 

2. follow normal, abnormal, and emergency procedures as required 

by the regulations and company procedures; 

3. demonstrate sound judgment, aeronautical decision-making, and 

dispatch resource management skills; and 

4. apply aeronautical knowledge. 

Unsatisfactory Performance 

If, in the judgment of the examiner, the applicant does not meet the 

standards of performance of any TASK performed, the associated AREA 

OF OPERATION is failed and; therefore, the practical test is failed. 

The examiner or applicant may discontinue the test at any time when the 

failure of an AREA OF OPERATION makes the applicant ineligible for the 

certificate sought. The test may be continued only with the consent of 

the applicant. If the test is discontinued, the applicant is entitled to credit 

for only those AREAs OF OPERATION and their associated TASKs 

satisfactorily performed. However, during the re-test and at the discretion 

of the examiner, any TASK may be re-evaluated, including those 

previously passed. 

When a Notice of Disapproval is issued, the examiner shall record the 

applicant’s unsatisfactory performance in terms of the AREA OF 

OPERATION and specific TASK(s) not meeting the standard appropriate to 

practical test conducted. The AREA(s) OF OPERATION/TASK(s) not 

tested and the number of practical test failures shall also be recorded. 

Letter of Discontinuance 

When a practical test is discontinued for reasons other than unsatisfactory 

performance (i.e., equipment failure or illness), FAA Form 8400-3, 

Application for an Airman Certificate and/or Rating, and, if applicable, the 

Airman Knowledge Test Report, shall be returned to the applicant. The 

examiner at that time shall prepare, sign, and issue a Letter of 

Discontinuance to the applicant. The Letter of Discontinuance should 

identify the AREAs OF OPERATION and their associated TASKs of the 

practical test that were successfully completed. The applicant shall be 

advised that the Letter of Discontinuance shall be presented to the 

examiner when the practical test is resumed, and made part of the 

certification file. 
9 FAA-S-8081-10C 

Dispatch Resource Management (DRM) 

The NTSB has found that inadequate operational control and inadequate 

collaborative decision-making have been contributing factors in air carrier 

accidents. Effective management of available resources by aircraft 

dispatchers is one essential deterrent to such accidents. In exercising 

operational control, the dispatcher coordinates with flight crewmembers, air 

traffic controllers (ATC), and other members of a vast team in order to meet 

the requirements of daily flight operations. AC 121-32, Dispatch Resource 

Management Training, encourages the dispatcher’s knowledge of the 

functions of the other participants throughout the operation environment. 

Two expected benefits to the dispatcher are (1) better handling of 

information that bears on safe flight operations and (2) a better interface 

with each pilot in command, consistent with the joint responsibility concept 

outlined in 14 CFR part 121. 

Examiners are required to exercise proper DRM competencies in 

conducting tests, as well as expecting the same from applicants. 

Aeronautical Decision Making and Risk Management 

The examiner shall evaluate the applicant’s ability throughout the practical 

test to use good aeronautical decision-making procedures in order to 

evaluate risks. The examiner shall accomplish this requirement by 

developing scenarios that incorporate as many TASKs as possible to 

evaluate the applicant’s risk management procedures in making safe 

aeronautical decisions. For example, the examiner may develop a scenario 

that incorporates weather decisions and performance planning. The 

applicant’s ability to utilize all the assets available in making a risk analysis 

to determine the safest course of action is essential for satisfactory 

performance. The scenarios should be realistic and within the capabilities 

of the aircraft and company operations used for the practical test. 
1-1 FAA-S-8081-10C 

I. AREA OF OPERATION: FLIGHT PLANNING/DISPATCH 

 RELEASE 

A. TASK: REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS 

REFERENCES: 14 CFR parts 1, 25, 61, 65 subpart C, 71, 91, 121, and 

139; 49 CFR parts 175, 830, and 1544; AC 61-84, AC 90-94; AC 91-70; 

General Operating Manual; Operations Specifications. 

NOTE: Where appropriate, questions on other AREAs OF OPERATION 

may be based on the assigned flight. 

Objective. To determine that the applicant: 

1. Can explain the regulatory requirements for obtaining a dispatcher 

certificate and discuss why air carriers employ dispatchers. 

2. Exhibits adequate knowledge of the elements of flight planning 

and dispatch release(s) by preparing a flight plan, load manifest, 

take off data information, and dispatch release for a flight between 

designated points. 

3. Plans and briefs the flight in accordance with regulatory 

requirements, operations specifications, and company procedures. 

B. TASK: METEOROLOGY 

REFERENCES: 14 CFR parts 65, subpart C, and 121; FAA-H-8083-25; 

AC 00-6, AC 00-45; AIM. 

Objective. To determine that the applicant: 

1. Understands and can explain elements of basic weather studies 

and weather theory, such as the Earth’s motion and its effects on 

weather. 

2. Demonstrates adequate knowledge of regional and local weather 

types, structures and characteristics of the atmosphere, through 

oral questioning, application and briefing of the flight 

plan/dispatch release exercise, including— 

 a. pressure. 

 b. wind. 

 c. clouds. 

 d. fog. 

 e. ice. 

 f. airmasses. 

 g. fronts. 
FAA-S-8081-10C 1-2

C. TASK: WEATHER OBSERVATIONS, ANALYSIS, AND 

 FORECASTS 

REFERENCES: 14 CFR parts 65 subpart C and 121; FAA-H-8083-25; AC 

00-6, AC 00-45, AC 91-51, AC 120-60, AC 120-117; AIM. 

NOTE: Where current weather reports, forecasts, or other pertinent 

information are not available, this information shall be simulated by the 

examiner in a manner that adequately measures the applicant’s 

competence. Examples of aviation weather data are indicated within 

parentheses below, as appropriate. 

Objective. To determine through oral questioning and the flight 

plan/dispatch release exercise that the applicant: 

1. Exhibits adequate knowledge of the elements of aviation weather 

information by obtaining, reading, and analyzing the applicable 

items, such as— 

a. Aviation weather reports and forecasts (ATIS, METAR, 

SPECI, TAF, FA, FD, CWSU, MIS, CWA, WH, AC, WW, 

AWW). 

b. Pilot and radar reports (PIREPS, SD, satellite weather 

imagery, RADATs). 

c. Surface analysis charts. 

d. Significant weather prognostic charts (SIG WX). 

e. Winds and temperatures aloft (FD). 

f. Freezing level charts (FD, RADATS, FA, surface analysis 

chart, constant pressure charts). 

g. Composite moisture stability charts. 

h. Weather depiction charts. 

i. Constant pressure analysis charts. 

j. Tables and conversion graphs. 

k. SIGMETs and AIRMETs (WS, WA, WST). 

l. NOTAMs/NOTAM systems. 

1) NOTAM D. 

2) FDC NOTAM. 

3) NOTAM L. 

4) Military NOTAM. 

m. EWINS (enhanced weather information system). 

2. Correctly analyzes the assembled weather information pertaining 

to the proposed route of flight and destination airport, and 

determines whether an alternate airport is required and properly 

briefs the examiner. If alternate required, determines whether the 

selected alternate meets the requirements of the CFRs and the 

operations specifications. 
1-3 FAA-S-8081-10C 

D. TASK: WEATHER-RELATED HAZARDS 

REFERENCES: FAA-H-8083-15, FAA-H-8083-25; AC 00-6, AC 00-45, AC 

20-29, AC 20-117, AC 91-43, AC 91-74; Aircraft Flight Manual, General 

Operating Manual, Operations Manuals. 

Objective. To determine that the applicant demonstrates adequate 

knowledge of the elements of weather hazards by applying any appropriate 

performance penalties and corrections on the practice flight plan/dispatch 

release and then appropriately briefing or discussing with the examiner 

weather hazards, such as: 

1. Crosswinds and gusts. 

2. Contaminated runways. 

3. Restrictions to surface visibility. 

4. Turbulence and wind shear. 

5. Icing. 

6. Thunderstorms and microbursts. 

7. Tornadoes. 

8. Hurricanes. 

9. Typhoons. 

10. Volcanic ash. 

E. TASK: AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS, PERFORMANCE, AND 

 LIMITATIONS 

REFERENCES: 14 CFR parts 65 subpart C and 121; Aircraft Flight 

Manual, Operations Manuals; MEL/CDL; FAA-H-8083-1; AC 120-27.

Objective. To determine that the applicant: 

1. Exhibits adequate knowledge of the principles of flight for group 

one and group two aircraft, and the elements of performance 

limitations, including thorough knowledge of the adverse effects of 

exceeding any limitation. 

2. Demonstrates proficient use and knowledge of appropriate aircraft 

performance charts, tables, graphs, or other data relating to such 

items as— 

a. Accelerate-stop distance. 

b. Accelerate-go distance. 

c. Takeoff performance—all engines, and engine(s) inoperative. 

d. Climb performance,—all engines, and engine(s) inoperative. 

e. Service ceiling; all engines, and engine(s) inoperative. 

f. Cruise performance. 

g. Fuel consumption, range, and endurance. 

h. Descent performance. 

i. Go-around from rejected landing. 

j. Landing performance. 

k. Quick turnaround performance. 

l. Drift down. 
FAA-S-8081-10C 1-4

3. Describes appropriate aircraft performance airspeeds used during 

specific phases of flight. 

4. Describes the effects of meteorological conditions upon 

performance characteristics and correctly applies these factors to 

a specific chart, graph, or other performance data. 

5. Computes the center-of-gravity location for a specific load 

condition (as specified by the examiner), including adding, 

removing, and shifting weight. 

6. Determines that the takeoff weight, landing weight, and zero fuel 

weight are within limits. 

7. Describes economics of flight procedures, including performance 

and fuel tankering. 

8. Demonstrates good planning and knowledge of procedures in 

applying operational factors affecting aircraft performance. 

9. Demonstrates and applies, using correct terminology, adequate 

aircraft systems knowledge related to— 

a. Flight controls. 

b. Autoflight. 

c. Hydraulics. 

d. Electrical. 

e. Air conditioning and pressurization. 

f. Ice and rain protection. 

g. Avionics, communication and navigation. 

h. Powerplants and auxiliary power units. 

i. Fuel systems and sources. 

j. Oil system. 

k. Landing gear and brakes. 

l. Fire detection and protection. 

m. Emergency and abnormal procedures. 

n. Minimum equipment list/configuration deviation list 

(MEL/CDL). 
1-5 FAA-S-8081-10C 

F. TASK: NAVIGATION AND AIRCRAFT NAVIGATION SYSTEMS 

REFERENCES: 14 CFR parts 65 subpart C and 121; Aircraft Flight 

Manual, Operations Manuals; AIM. 

Objective. To determine that the applicant demonstrates adequate 

knowledge of navigation and aircraft navigation equipment and procedures, 

such as: 

 1. Navigation charts, symbols, and the national airspace system. 

 2. Airborne navigation instruments and automated databank 

 systems— 

 a. Electronic flight instrument system (EFIS) 

 b. Flight management system (FMS) 

 3. Special navigation operations and performance— 

 a. RVSM/DRVSM (Reduced Vertical Separation 

 Minimums/Domestic Reduced Vertical Separation Minimums). 

 b. ETOPS (Extended Range Operation with Two-Engine Aircraft). 

 c. RNP (Required Navigation Performance). 

 d. RNAV routes (Area Navigation). 

 i. GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System). 

(1) WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System) and GPS 

 (Global Positioning System). 

 ii. Inertial Based Systems. 

 e. FMS (Flight Management System). 

 4. Navigation definitions, time references and location (0° longitude, 

 UTC). 

 5. Navigation systems including— 

 a. VHF Omnidirectional Range (VOR). 

 b. Distance Measuring Equipment (DME). 

 c. Instrument Landing System (ILS). 

 d. Marker Beacon Receiver/Indications. 

 e. Transponder/Altitude Encoding. 

 f. Automatic Direction Finding (ADF). 

 g. Long Range Navigation (LORAN). 

 h. Inertial Navigation System (INS). 

 i. Inertial Reference System (IRS). 

 j. Radio Area Navigation (RNAV). 

 k. Doppler Radar. 

 l. Global Positioning System (GPS). 
FAA-S-8081-10C 1-6

G. TASK: PRACTICAL DISPATCH APPLICATIONS 

REFERENCES: 14 CFR part 65 subpart C; AC 60-22, AC 121-32. 

Objective. To determine that the applicant exhibits adequate knowledge, 

judgment, and authority to influence and prevent aircraft 

accidents/incidents through knowledge of the following elements: 

1. DRM (dispatcher resource management) procedures. 

2. Human factors, teamwork, communications, and information 

exchange. 

3. Aeronautical decision-making. 

4. Situational awareness, assessment, and problem solving. 

5. Generation and evaluation of alternatives. 

6. Contingency planning. 

7. Human error and technology-induced error. 

8. Support tools and technologies. 

9. Tradeoffs and prioritization. 

10. Individual and organizational factors. 

11. Prevention, detection, and recovery from errors. 

12. Company risk management procedures, as appropriate. 

H. TASK: MANUALS, HANDBOOKS, AND OTHER WRITTEN 

 GUIDANCE 

REFERENCES: 14 CFR parts 65 subpart C and 121; 49 CFR parts 175, 

830, and 1544; General Operating Manual, Operations Specifications, 

MEL/CDL, Aircraft Flight Manual; FAA-H-8083-25, FAA-H-8261-1; AC 00-

2, AC 90-79, AC 90-91, AC 90-94, AC 121-26; FAA Order 7340.1, FAA 

Order 8260.3; Operations Manuals, AIM/IFIM. 

Objective. To determine that the applicant demonstrates adequate 

knowledge of and can effectively locate the appropriate manuals, 

handbooks, and other resource materials required for dispatching aircraft 

and to accomplish the TASKs in the practical test guide, such as: 

1. 14 CFR part 65. 

2. 14 CFR part 121. 

3. 49 CFR part 175. 

4. 49 CFR part 830. 

5. 49 CFR part 1544. 

6. General Operating Manual. 

7. Operations Specifications. 
1-7 FAA-S-8081-10C 

II. AREA OF OPERATION: PREFLIGHT, TAKEOFF, AND 

 DEPARTURE 

A. TASK: AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL PROCEDURES 

REFERENCES: 14 CFR parts 65 subpart C, 91, and 121; FAA-H-8261-1; 

AIM/IFIM. 

Objective. To determine that the applicant exhibits adequate knowledge 

of the elements of air traffic control, including: 

1. ATC responsibilities. 

2. ATC facilities and equipment. 

3. Airspace classification and route structure. 

4. Domestic flight plans. 

5. International flight plans. 

6. ATC separation minimums. 

7. ATC flow control. 

8. ATC traffic management. 

9. ATC communications, protocol, and regulations. 

10. Voice and data link communications. 

11. DP/SID/ODP (Departure procedure, standard instrument 

departure, obstacle departure procedure). 

12. Area Departures. 

13. Terminal area charts, en route low/high charts. 

14. Approved departure procedures and takeoff minimums. 

15. Abnormal procedures. 

B. TASK: AIRPORTS, CREW, AND COMPANY PROCEDURES 

REFERENCES: 14 CFR part 121; General Operating Manual, Operations 

Specifications, Operations Manuals, AFD; En Route High/low Charts, 

Terminal Area Charts; SIDs. 

Objective. To determine that the applicant demonstrates adequate 

knowledge in the elements of airport operations, crew requirements and 

company procedures, such as: 

1. Crew qualifications and limitations. 

2. Dispatch area, routes, and main terminals. 

3. Airport diagrams, charts, and symbols. 

4. Authorization of flight departure with concurrence of pilot in 

command. 

5. Company approved departure procedures. 

6. Airport/facility directory. 

7. Takeoff alternate. 
FAA-S-8081-10C 1-8

III. AREA OF OPERATION: INFLIGHT PROCEDURES 

A. TASK: ROUTING, RE-ROUTING, AND FLIGHT PLAN FILING 

REFERENCES: 14 CFR parts 91 and 121; AIM; FAA-H-8083-15; Airport 

Facility Directory; General Operating Manual, Operations Specifications. 

Objective. To determine that the applicant demonstrates adequate 

knowledge of and skill to apply the following elements: 

1. ATC routing. 

2. ATC re-routing and company and crew communication 

requirements. 

3. Re-filing of ATC Flight Plan. 

4. Amended release procedures. 

5. Inflight diversions. 

6. Intermediate stops. 

7. Alternate procedures. 

8. Refueling and provisional airports. 

9. Weather requirements for airports. 

B. TASK: EN ROUTE COMMUNICATION PROCEDURES AND 

 REQUIREMENTS 

REFERENCES: 14 CFR parts 91 and 121; General Operating Manual, 

Operations Specifications. 

Objective. To determine that the applicant demonstrates adequate 

knowledge of the elements and method of inflight communications, such as 

1. Voice and data link communication requirements. 

2. Company and ATC communications, protocol, and regulations. 

3. Company and ATC position reports and requirements. 

4. Flight following. 

5. Aircraft communications addressing and reporting system 

(ACARS). 

6. Selective Calling System (SELCAL). 

7. High frequency communications (HF). 

8. Very high frequency communications (VHF). 

9. Satellite communications (SATCOM). 

10. Controller Pilot Data Link Communications (CPDLC). 
1-9 FAA-S-8081-10C 

IV. AREA OF OPERATION: ARRIVAL, APPROACH, AND 

 LANDING PROCEDURES 

TASK: ATC AND AIR NAVIGATION PROCEDURES 

REFERENCES: 14 CFR parts 91 and 121; Operations Specifications, 

General Operating Manual, AIM; FAA-H-8083-15, FAA-H-8261-1; AC 120-

28, AC 120-29, AC 120-57. 

Objective. To determine that the applicant exhibits adequate knowledge 

of: 

1. Area arrivals. 

2. Transition routes and procedures. 

3. Standard terminal arrival routes (STARs). 

4. Instrument approach procedures (IAPs) and charts. 

5. Precision approach procedures. 

a. CAT I ILS. 

b. CAT II ILS. 

c. CAT III ILS. 

d. ILS PRM (Precision Runway Monitor). 

e. PAR approach (Precision Approach Radar). 

6. Non-precision approach procedures. 

7. ATC separation minimums. 

8. ATC priority handling. 
FAA-S-8081-10C 1-10

V. AREA OF OPERATION: POST FLIGHT PROCEDURES 

A. TASK: COMMUNICATION PROCEDURES AND REQUIREMENTS 

REFERENCES: 14 CFR parts 91 and 121; General Operating Manual, 

AIM. 

Objective. To determine that the applicant exhibits adequate knowledge 

of the elements of regulatory and company post-flight communication 

procedures and required company documents, such as: 

1. Arrival message components, requirements and communication 

protocol. 

2. Normal and alternate methods of communications delivery. 

B. TASK: TRIP RECORDS 

REFERENCES: 14 CFR parts 91 and 121; General Operating Manual. 

Objective. To determine that the applicant demonstrates adequate 

knowledge of the elements of: 

1. Regulatory requirements and post flight disposition of the flight 

release, weight and balance, load manifest, weather documents, 

communications records, and other trip documents and reports. 
1-11 FAA-S-8081-10C 

VI. AREA OF OPERATION: ABNORMAL AND EMERGENCY 

 PROCEDURES 

TASK: ABNORMAL AND EMERGENCY PROCEDURES 

REFERENCES: 14 CFR parts 91 and 121; 49 CFR parts 175, 830, and 

1544; General Operating Manual, Aircraft Flight Manual, Operations 

Manuals, AIM. 

Objective. To determine that the applicant exhibits adequate knowledge 

and proficiency in the elements abnormal and emergency procedures, 

such as: 

1. Security measures on the ground. 

2. Security measures in the air. 

3. FAA responsibility and services. 

4. Collection and dissemination of information on overdue or 

missing aircraft. 

5. Means of declaring an emergency. 

6. Responsibility for declaring an emergency. 

7. Required reporting of an emergency. 

8. NTSB reporting requirements. 

9. 49 CFR part 1544 requirements.