Maneuvering Speed

Maneuvering speed (V_A) is the design manoeuvring speed — the maximum speed at which full deflection of a single flight control surface (aileron, elevator, or rudder) will not exceed the structural limits of the aircraft. Below V_A, the wing will stall before structural overload occurs; above V_A, full control input can overstress the airframe.

V_A and Turbulence

V_A is the recommended speed for flying in turbulence. At or below V_A, gusts and turbulence will cause the aircraft to buffet or stall before the structure is overloaded. However, this protection applies only to single control inputs — multiple simultaneous full deflections (e.g., full rudder plus full aileron) can overstress the aircraft even at V_A.

V_A Varies with Weight

V_A decreases as aircraft weight decreases. The published V_A in the POH is for maximum gross weight. At lighter weights, use a lower V_A. A common approximation: V_A at current weight ≈ published V_A × √(current weight / MTOW).

On the TC Written Exam

Know: V_A is the turbulence penetration speed; it decreases with weight; full control deflection below V_A will not overstress the aircraft (single surface); V_A is not a guarantee against structural damage with combined inputs.

Related Terms

See also: Load Factor, V_NE, Gross Weight.