To improve combat readiness, reduce aviation mishaps, and improve flight safety through the effective standardization of aircrew practices and procedures in the execution of Operational Excellence. Effective implementation of the NATOPS program is a leadership responsibility.

Compliance with the NATOPS program and publications is mandatory at all levels within Marine aviation; however, nothing contained therein shall prevent the aircrew from taking such actions as the aircrew may deem necessary, under unusual or emergency conditions, to safeguard life and property.

In those specific instances in which a service member is in compliance with reference (c), he/she must also be in compliance with references (a) and (b) to function/operate as a crewmember in USMC aircraft.