Plain English Meaning

The specific airspeed that gives you the longest possible glide for the height you have available. Fly faster or slower than this speed and you will not travel as far through the air before reaching the ground.

Full Definition

The airspeed that produces the greatest forward distance per unit of altitude lost when the airplane is gliding without engine power. It represents the lift-to-drag ratio at its most efficient point for the airplane's current weight and configuration, and is published in the Pilot's Operating Handbook for the manufacturer's tested weight.

Context Anchor

Used during , engine- , and any where the pilot needs to manage how far the airplane can glide without added .