What is maneuvering speed?

Maneuvering speed, also known as Va, is the maximum speed at which an aircraft can be safely maneuvered without causing structural damage. It is typically determined by the aircraft manufacturer during certification testing and is typically displayed on the airspeed indicator in the cockpit.

Maneuvering speed is crucial for pilots to be aware of, as exceeding this speed can lead to overstressing the aircraft structure, potentially resulting in structural failure. This is particularly important in turbulent conditions or during rapid maneuvers.

The maneuvering speed is calculated based on factors such as the aircraft's weight, load factor, and bank angle. It is important for pilots to operate the aircraft within the specified maneuvering speed to ensure safe flight operations.

It is also important to note that maneuvering speed is not the same as the aircraft's stall speed or maximum operating speed (Vne). Pilots should be aware of all these speeds and operate the aircraft within the specified limits to ensure safe and efficient flight operations.