Definition
The maximum and minimum speeds at which an aircraft is approved to be operated, established by the manufacturer and published in the Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH) or Aircraft Flight Manual (AFM). These limits are marked on the airspeed indicator with colored arcs and lines, and include values such as never-exceed speed (Vne), maximum structural cruising speed (Vno), maximum flap-extended speed (Vfe), and stall speeds (Vs and Vso).
Plain English
The fastest and slowest speeds the aircraft is allowed to fly, set by the manufacturer for safety. Going outside these limits can damage the aircraft or cause it to stop flying.
Context Anchor
You see airspeed limits in the aircraft flight manual, pilot’s operating handbook, cockpit placards, and on the airspeed indicator.
Derivation
Airspeed means the aircraft’s speed through the air. Limit comes from a word meaning a boundary. Together, airspeed limits means the speed boundaries the aircraft is approved to operate within.
Why Pilots Care
Exceeding these limits can cause structural failure or loss of control; flying below them can lead to a stall.
Intuition Check
Do not read airspeed limits as target speeds or helpful suggestions. They are approved boundaries for specific situations, and the correct limit can change when flaps, landing gear, turbulence, or other conditions are involved.
Example Sentence 1
Before takeoff, the technician verified the airspeed indicator markings matched the airspeed limits listed in the aircraft's flight manual.
Example Sentence 2
Red-line airspeed limits must never be exceeded in level flight or in a dive.