ALTITUDE LIMITATIONS
If the rotorcraft has a maximum operating density altitude, it is indicated in this section of the flight manual. Sometimes the maximum altitude varies based on different gross weights.
ROTOR LIMITATIONS
Low rotor r.p.m. does not produce sufficient lift, and high r.p.m. may cause structural damage, therefore rotor r.p.m. limitations have minimum and maximum values. A green arc depicts the normal operating range with red lines showing the minimum and maximum limits. [Figure 6-3]
 
There are two different rotor r.p.m. limitations: power-on and power-off. Power-on limitations apply anytime the engine is turning the rotor and is depicted by a fairly narrow green band. A yellow arc may be included to show a transition range, which means that operation within this range is limited. Power-off limitations apply anytime the engine is not turning the rotor, such as when in an autorotation. In this case, the green arc is wider than the power-on arc, indicating a larger operating range.
POWERPLANT LIMITATIONS
The Powerplant Limitations area describes operating limitations on the rotorcraft’s engine including such items as r.p.m. range, power limitations, operating temperatures, and fuel and oil requirements. Most turbine engines and some reciprocating engines have a maximum power and a maximum continuous power rating. The “maximum power” rating is the maximum power the engine can generate and is usually limited by time. The maximum power range is depicted by a yellow arc on the engine power instruments, with a red line indicating the maximum power that must not be exceeded. “Maximum continuous power” is the maximum power the engine can generate continually, and is depicted by a green arc. [Figure 6-4]
 
Figure 6-4. Torque and turbine outlet temperature (TOT) gauges are commonly used with turbine-powered aircraft.
Like on a torque and turbine outlet temperature gauge, the red line on a manifold pressure gauge indicates the maximum amount of power. A yellow arc on the gauge warns of pressures approaching the limit of rated power. A placard near the gauge lists the maximum readings for specific conditions. [Figure 6-5]
WEIGHT AND LOADING DISTRIBUTION
The Weight and Loading Distribution area contains the maximum certificated weights, as well as the center of gravity (CG) range. The location of the reference datum used in balance computations should also be included in this section. Weight and balance computations are not provided here, but rather in the Weight and Balance Section of the FAA-Approved Rotocraft Flight Manual.
 

FLIGHT LIMITATIONS
This area lists any maneuvers which are prohibited, such as acrobatic flight or flight into known icing conditions. If the rotorcraft can only be flown in VFR conditions, it will be noted in this area. Also included are the minimum crew requirements, and the pilot seat location, if applicable, where solo flights must be conducted.