Airspeed Limitations

The limitations are the lines you do not cross. The airplane is operated in one of two categories, and within the placards, the markings and the handbook. Start with the airspeeds.

At a glance

• V_NE, never exceed154 KIAS (148 KCAS)
• V_NO, maximum structural cruising125 KIAS (121 KCAS)
• V_A at 2550 lb113 KIAS (111 KCAS)
• V_A at 1634 lb89 KIAS (89 KCAS)
• V_FE, maximum flaps extended102 KIAS (100 KCAS)

Categories

The airplane is operated as a normal or utility category airplane, complying with the placards, the markings, the limitations and the complete handbook. Optional equipment that needs a supplement has its limitations in Section 9.

The airspeed limits

• V_NE — 154 KIAS (148 KCAS). Never exceed it, in any operation.

• V_NO — 125 KIAS (121 KCAS). Go above it only in smooth air, and even then carefully.

• V_A — 113 KIAS (111 KCAS) at 2550 lb gross weight; 89 KIAS (89 KCAS) at 1634 lb. No full or abrupt control movement above it.

• V_FE — 102 KIAS (100 KCAS). Do not exceed it with the flaps extended.

CAUTION — Maneuvering speed gets lower as the airplane gets lighter. Between the two tabulated weights you may interpolate in a straight line. In rough air, stay at or below maneuvering speed.

V_A is the only limit here that moves with weight: the lighter you are, the lower it sits.

Check yourself

• What are V_NE and V_NO, in KIAS?

• What is V_A at 2550 lb and at 1634 lb, and how do you find it in between?

• When may V_NO be exceeded?

• What is the maximum flaps extended speed?

Study aid — always fly your aircraft's current AFM/POH.