Private Pilot Ground Lesson 12

Key Topics Covered:

• V Speeds
• Airspeed Indicator
• Different Airspeeds

Introduction

• V Speeds: The 'V' stands for velocity, and these are important for safety during flight. They relate to indicated airspeed.
• Types of Airspeed:
  • Indicated Airspeed: What is shown on the airspeed indicator.
  • Calibrated Airspeed: Adjusted indicated airspeed for instrument and installation error.
  • True Airspeed: Calibrated airspeed adjusted for altitude and temperature.
  • Ground Speed: Airplane speed over the ground, affected by wind.

V-Speeds Explained

• VX: Best angle of climb for gaining the most altitude in the shortest distance.
  • Memory Aid: "V X - I'm dead if I hit that tree."
• VY: Best rate of climb for gaining the most altitude in the shortest time.
• VA (Maneuvering Speed): Maximum airspeed for safe maneuvering without structural damage.
  • Protection against structural damage or failure during sudden control inputs or turbulence.

Airspeed Indicator

• Color Coding:
  • Zero Airspeed Marker: Should read zero when not moving.
  • White Arc: Flap operating speed.
    • VS0: Stall speed with gear and flaps extended ("Stall with Stuff Out").
    • VFE: Maximum speed with flaps extended.
  • Green Arc: Normal operating range.
    • VS1: Stall speed with gear and flaps retracted ("Stall with Stuff In").
    • VNO: Maximum structural cruise speed ("Normally Operate").
  • Yellow Arc: Caution range, only fly in smooth air.
    • Upper limit: VNE ("Never Exceed").

Additional V-Speeds for Retractable Gear

• VLO: Maximum speed for extending/retracting gear ("Landing Gear Lowered").
• VLE: Maximum speed after gear has been extended ("Landing Gear Extended").

Conclusion

• Subscribe and turn on notifications for future lessons.
• Importance of understanding V-speeds for safe aircraft operation.