FAA Ground School Practice Test

Which v-speed represents maneuvering speed?

1. Vx

2. Vy

3. Va

4. Vso

The correct answer is: Va

Maneuvering speed, denoted as Va, is critical in aircraft operations as it defines the maximum speed at which a pilot can safely make full deflections of the control surfaces without risking structural damage to the aircraft. This speed is especially important during turbulent conditions or when there is a significant load factor. At speeds below maneuvering speed, an aircraft is more forgiving, as it will stall before it exceeds the aircraft's structural limits during abrupt maneuvers. To elaborate on the context of this concept, Vx and Vy represent specific climb speeds. Vx is the speed for the best angle of climb, providing the greatest altitude gain over the shortest horizontal distance. Vy, on the other hand, is the speed for the best rate of climb, yielding the most altitude gain over time. Although important for climb performance, they do not relate to the concept of maneuverability and structural integrity during aggressive handling. Vso signifies the stalling speed in a specified configuration, typically the landing configuration, which is vital for understanding the aircraft's performance limits but is not a maneuvering speed. Thus, Va is uniquely important as it provides pilots with a margin that allows for safe maneuvering while minimizing the risk of structural damage to the aircraft.