Becoming a pilot requires memorizing and understanding many valuable pieces of information. The V-Speeds are used to describe various flight characteristics and performance parameters of an aircraft. These various speeds that are unique to the aircraft that you are flying have acronyms assigned to them. These various speeds are extremely important to understand as they reflect important flying characteristic of the flight performation of your aircraft. Knowing these V-speeds for your aircraft is critical to maintaining safe flight. For example, bad things can possibly happen if you exceed the Vne speed for your aircraft. This could be lead to structural failure of your aircraft and loss of control.
The acronyms themselves are pretty much standardized while the speeds associated with them are unique. The speeds for your specific aircraft can be found in the POH (Pilots Operating Handbook) / Aircraft Flight Manual.
The following is a list of some of the most commonly used V-speeds:
- VSO: Stalling speed or minimum steady flight speed in the landing configuration.
- VS1: Stalling speed or minimum steady flight speed in a specified configuration (other than landing).
- VFE: Maximum flap extended speed.
- VLE: Maximum landing gear extended speed.
- VNE: Never exceed speed.
- VA: Maneuvering speed.
- VNO: Maximum structural cruising speed.
- VLO: Maximum landing gear operating speed.
- VR: Rotation speed.
- VX: Best angle of climb speed.
- VY: Best rate of climb speed.
As said previously, specific V-speeds for a particular aircraft may vary depending on the aircraft type, weight, configuration, and other factors. Pilots should consult the POH or manual for the exact V-speeds applicable to their aircraft.
You can possibly be expected to be tested on this during your ground portion of your flight test. Your examiner can very well ask you these.
