Maneuvering Speed
What is maneuvering speed?
Maneuvering speed (VA) is the maximum speed at which you can use full, abrupt control movements—or fly through rough air—without overstressing the airframe. Below this speed the aircraft will stall before structural limits are exceeded, protecting the airframe from excessive load. Note that VA decreases as aircraft weight decreases, and it usually doesn't appear marked on the airspeed indicator. Think of it as your "rough air and aggressive control" speed limit—slow down to VA in turbulence.
Also known as: VA, design maneuvering speed, VB (rough air speed, gliders)
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