What type of airplanes is required to have a terrain awareness and warning system?

The requirement for a terrain awareness and warning system (TAWS) is specifically tied to turbine-powered aircraft, particularly those that are considered transport category airplanes. The regulation emphasizes safety for aircraft that operate in varied environments, where the possibility of moving towards terrain without visual or radar warning is a significant risk.

Turbine-powered airplanes, by their design and operational capabilities, often fly at altitudes and in airspaces where terrain awareness is crucial for safe operations, especially during approach and landing phases. The implementation of TAWS helps prevent controlled flight into terrain (CFIT) accidents by providing pilots with alerts regarding their proximity to the ground and nearby obstacles.

While there are other categories of aircraft, such as all-passenger carrying turbine-powered airplanes or turbo-prop aircraft, the specific requirement for TAWS is primarily focused on turbine-powered airplanes that are likely to carry passengers or cargo and operate in environments where terrain awareness is essential. This makes the chosen answer particularly relevant in addressing safety concerns associated with aviation operations.