Definition
The airspeed flown during the final approach and touchdown phase of a landing, set as a margin above the aircraft's stall speed in the landing configuration. It varies with aircraft weight: a heavier aircraft stalls at a higher speed and therefore must be flown faster on approach and at touchdown to maintain a safe margin above the stall.
Plain English
The speed an aircraft flies as it descends toward the runway and touches down. The heavier the aircraft, the faster this speed has to be, because a heavier aircraft would stall at a higher speed.
Context Anchor
Seen in aircraft performance discussions, especially when comparing how different weights affect landing distance and handling.
Why Pilots Care
Using the proper speed prevents hard landings, runway overruns, or stalls close to the ground.
Grounding Statement
A heavier airplane has to move faster to keep the wing lifting it safely during the approach and landing.
Intuition Check
Approach and landing speed is not just whatever speed feels comfortable on final. It is a target speed based on the airplane’s guidance and the conditions for that landing.
Example Sentence 1
Because we were near max gross weight, the instructor reminded me to add a few knots to our normal approach and landing speed.
Example Sentence 2
Increased aircraft weight raises the approach and landing speed needed for a safe touchdown.