Which speed is the maximum maneuvering speed for a 1,670-pound aircraft?

Which speed is the maximum maneuvering speed for a 1,670-pound aircraft?

• A. 149 knots
• B. 95 knots
• C. 104 knots
• D. 67 knots

Answer: (C)

The speed called maneuvering speed (V_A) is the maximum airspeed at which full, abrupt control inputs can be made without exceeding the airplane’s structural limits. It depends on weight, because heavier airplanes need more airspeed to safely reach the same limit-load during a maneuver. For this aircraft at 1,670 pounds, the manufacturer’s data specify V_A to be 104 knots. That means up to 104 knots you can apply a full, abrupt control input and stay within the design load limits; above that speed, a rapid control input could push the structure beyond its limit load, especially in gusty conditions or during sudden maneuvers. Why the other speeds aren’t the best choice here: they either fall below the maximum safe maneuvering speed (and thus aren’t the limiting value) or exceed it (risk of overstress during abrupt inputs). The value 104 knots is the one tied to this weight and represents the highest speed at which abrupt control is considered safe.

The speed called maneuvering speed (V_A) is the maximum airspeed at which full, abrupt control inputs can be made without exceeding the airplane’s structural limits. It depends on weight, because heavier airplanes need more airspeed to safely reach the same limit-load during a maneuver.

For this aircraft at 1,670 pounds, the manufacturer’s data specify V_A to be 104 knots. That means up to 104 knots you can apply a full, abrupt control input and stay within the design load limits; above that speed, a rapid control input could push the structure beyond its limit load, especially in gusty conditions or during sudden maneuvers.

Why the other speeds aren’t the best choice here: they either fall below the maximum safe maneuvering speed (and thus aren’t the limiting value) or exceed it (risk of overstress during abrupt inputs). The value 104 knots is the one tied to this weight and represents the highest speed at which abrupt control is considered safe.