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Naval Air Training and Operating Procedures Standardization
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<p>The Naval Air Training and Operating Procedures Standardization (NATOPS) program (pronounced <i>NAY-Tops</i>) prescribes general flight and operating instructions and procedures applicable to the operation of all <a href="/facts/List_of_United_States_naval_aircraft/BLyxRHJC">United States naval aircraft</a> and related activities. The program issues policy and procedural guidance of the <a href="/facts/Chief_of_Naval_Operations/IP7Skh60">Chief of Naval Operations</a> (CNO) and the <a href="/facts/Commandant_of_the_United_States_Marine_Corps/Hk2bf8Cg">Commandant of the Marine Corps</a> (CMC) that is applicable to all <a href="/facts/United_States_Navy/xYK0fUou">United States Navy</a> (USN) and <a href="/facts/United_States_Marine_Corps/J8JDlJG2">United States Marine Corps</a> (USMC) aviation personnel. </p><p>Each NATOPS manual for each USN and USMC Type/Model/Series (T/M/S) of aircraft has the following statement: </p> <blockquote><p>NATOPS is a positive approach toward improving combat readiness and achieving a substantial reduction in the aircraft accident rate. Standardization, based on professional knowledge and experience, provides the basis for development of an efficient and sound operational procedure. The standardization program is not planned to stifle individual initiative, but rather to aid the commanding officer in increasing the unit's combat potential without reducing command prestige or responsibility.</p>— OPNAV Instruction 3710.7U</blockquote>