SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/pilot-maneuvering-speed-va

What is design maneuvering speed, VA?

The speed below which one full control deflection won't damage the airplane.

  1. The maximum speed with flaps extended
  2. Speed below which one full control deflection won't cause damage ✔
  3. The never-exceed speed in smooth air

Why: Below VA, you can move one flight control, one time, to full deflection in one axis without risk of damage. Above it, abrupt full inputs could overstress the airplane.

Huh, didn't know that: For older light airplanes without a published VA, the FAA says it is about 1.7 times the normal stalling speed.

The dad joke
Why did the control yoke see a counselor? It could not handle the pressure.
Like this card?
Play the game

Sources

  1. FAA Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25C), Chapter 5 https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/faa-h-8083-25c.pdf

Test yourself in the game

Flying & DronesIn straight, level, unaccelerated flight, lift is equal to which force?Flying & DronesWhat is a wing's angle of attack?Flying & DronesWhat always causes a wing to stall?

That's stuff everyone should know.