FAR 23.2610 — Instrument Markings & Placards
FAR 23.2610 requires conspicuous placards, instrument markings, and clear cockpit control labeling. Learn what student pilots must know for checkrides.
In Plain English
FAR 23.2610 sets the basic rules for how an airplane communicates critical information to the pilot through the cockpit itself. It applies to airplane certification under Part 23 and ensures that you, as the pilot, can quickly identify limitations and control functions without guessing.
The regulation requires three things:
- Conspicuous placards and instrument markings: Every airplane must display any placard or instrument marking needed for safe operation (think airspeed arcs, fuel limits, baggage weight limits).
- Clear control function labeling: The design must make the function of each cockpit control obvious — except for primary flight controls (yoke, rudder pedals, throttle), which are assumed to be self-evident.
- AFM documentation: The applicant (manufacturer) must include all instrument markings and placard information in the Airplane Flight Manual (AFM).
Operationally, this matters because placards and markings are how the manufacturer communicates operating limitations directly to you in flight. Missing or illegible placards can render an aircraft unairworthy under 91.213 and 91.9.
Regulation Text
14 CFR § 23.2610§ 23.2610 Instrument markings, control markings, and placards.
(a) Each airplane must display in a conspicuous manner any placard and instrument marking necessary for operation.
(b) The design must clearly indicate the function of each cockpit control, other than primary flight controls.
(c) The applicant must include instrument marking and placard information in the Airplane Flight Manual.
Oral Exam Questions a DPE Might Ask
Q1What does FAR 23.2610 require regarding instrument markings and placards in the cockpit?
Per FAR 23.2610, each airplane must conspicuously display any placard and instrument marking necessary for operation, ensuring the pilot can readily see operating limitations.
Q2Do cockpit controls need to be labeled, and are there any exceptions?
Yes. FAR 23.2610(b) requires the design to clearly indicate the function of each cockpit control, except for the primary flight controls.
Q3Where can a pilot find the official list of an airplane's instrument markings and placards?
FAR 23.2610(c) requires the applicant to include instrument marking and placard information in the Airplane Flight Manual (AFM), so that's the authoritative source.
Studying for a checkride?
Related Sections in Part 23