Definition
The airspeed flown during the final approach segment of an instrument or visual approach, selected to provide stable handling, adequate stall margin, and a controlled descent to the runway.
Plain English
The speed the aircraft is flown at during the last part of an approach to land. It is chosen to keep the aircraft well above its stall speed while still allowing a smooth, controlled descent.
Context Anchor
Seen in flight plan data, ATC automation, and aviation glossary or abbreviation lists.
Why Pilots Care
Using approved FSPD sources guarantees that the pilot receives current, official information required for safe preflight planning and regulatory compliance.
Intuition Check
FSPD is not a command to fly that speed. It is the speed that was filed or recorded for planning.
Example Sentence 1
The crew briefed a final approach speed of 130 knots based on the aircraft's landing weight.
Example Sentence 2
FSPD from the vendor included the latest TFRs that affected the planned route.