Definition
A maximum airspeed limit of 200 knots, read directly from the airspeed indicator, that applies to aircraft flying a procedure turn or course reversal during an instrument approach. The restriction is set by regulation to keep the aircraft within the protected airspace designed around the procedure.
Plain English
When you fly the turn-around portion of an instrument approach, you cannot let your airspeed indicator read more than 200 knots. Going faster could carry you outside the area that has been checked for obstacles.
Context Anchor
Seen in instrument procedure instructions, including course reversal procedures, where a maximum speed may be stated for staying within the expected maneuvering area.
Derivation
Knot comes from old ship navigation, where sailors measured speed using knots tied in a line. Indicated means shown by an instrument. Together, 200 knots indicated airspeed means the cockpit instrument is showing 200 nautical miles per hour.
Why Pilots Care
This speed keeps the aircraft within protected airspace and timing tolerances during maneuvers.
Analogy
It is like following the speed shown on your car’s speedometer, not trying to calculate a corrected speed from outside conditions.
Intuition Check
Do not read indicated as “the aircraft’s exact true speed.” Here it means the speed displayed on the airspeed indicator, which is the value the procedure limit is based on.
Example Sentence 1
The pilot reduced power before starting the procedure turn to make sure the aircraft stayed at or below 200 knots indicated airspeed.
Example Sentence 2
Procedure notes require descent at no more than 200 knots indicated airspeed to stay inside protected airspace.