Definition
The specific airspeeds published by the aircraft manufacturer for each phase of flight and flight condition, including takeoff, climb, cruise, approach, landing, maneuvering, and emergency operations. These airspeeds are listed in the Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH) or Airplane Flight Manual (AFM) and are intended to produce safe, efficient, and predictable aircraft performance when flown accurately.
Plain English
The exact speeds the manufacturer says you should fly at during each part of a flight. Flying at these speeds keeps the airplane safe and performing the way it was designed to.
Context Anchor
Seen in flight training, checklists, performance discussions, and instructor guidance for normal flight operations.
Why Pilots Care
Using these speeds improves safety margins, reduces fuel burn, extends engine life, and prevents performance shortfalls that can lead to incidents.
Intuition Check
Do not read “correct” as one perfect speed that is always right. The correct speed changes with the aircraft, the phase of flight, the procedure, and the conditions.
Example Sentence 1
During training, the instructor emphasized using the correct operating airspeeds for each maneuver rather than relying on feel.
Example Sentence 2
After engine failure the pilot selected the correct operating airspeed for best glide to reach the nearest suitable field.