Where could you find maneuvering speed?
Which of these is the best place to find maneuvering speed?
Pick an answer. You can try as many as you like.
Read the full explanation
D. Type certificate data sheet
What maneuvering speed is
Design maneuvering speed (Va) is the maximum speed at which the structural design's limit load can be imposed, either by gusts or by full deflection of the control surfaces, without causing structural damage. It's the speed to slow to in turbulence.
Va changes with weight. A lighter airplane has a lower maneuvering speed than the same airplane at maximum weight, so there isn't one number that's right for every flight.
Why it isn't on the airspeed indicator
The airspeed indicator marks the white arc (the flap operating range), the green arc (the normal operating range), the yellow arc (the caution range) and the red line (Vne, the never-exceed speed). Va isn't one of those markings. The PHAK lists it with the other important airspeed limitations that aren't marked on the face of the ASI, and says they are found on placards and in the AFM/POH.
Where you find it
Most pilots look it up in the POH or AFM, in Section 2, Limitations. Many give Va at more than one weight. Plenty of airplanes also have it on a placard.
Of the four quiz options, the TCDS (type certificate data sheet) is the one that lists it. The FAA issues the TCDS to the manufacturer as part of the type certificate during certification. It records the airplane's approved limits, and the airspeed limits section includes maneuvering speed. If you haven't had a chance to look at one, now might be a good time to check it out. There's a lot of cool data in there.
Why the other documents don't have it
The registration certificate shows the N-number and who owns the airplane. The airworthiness certificate shows the airplane met FAA standards when it was certificated, and it stays valid as long as the airplane is maintained. Neither one lists any airspeeds.
References
- Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25C), Chapter 8: Flight Instruments PDFSee Airspeed Indicator Markings on page 8-9 and Other Airspeed Limitations, starting on page 8-9 (Va is on page 8-10).
- FAA Dynamic Regulatory SystemSearch Type Certificate Data Sheets for your airplane's TCDS (the Cessna 172's is 3A12). Maneuvering speed is under Airspeed Limits.
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