V-Speeds & Airspeed Indicator Markings
V-speeds are standard performance and limitation speeds. The exact numbers come from your aircraft’s POH — these are the definitions every pilot should know.
Common V-speeds
| Speed | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Vso | Stall speed in the landing configuration (gear/flaps down) |
| Vs1 | Stall speed in a specified (usually clean) configuration |
| Vx | Best angle of climb (most altitude per distance) |
| Vy | Best rate of climb (most altitude per time) |
| Va | Manoeuvring speed (max speed for full control deflection) — varies with weight |
| Vfe | Maximum flap-extended speed |
| Vno | Maximum structural cruising speed (top of the green arc) |
| Vne | Never-exceed speed (the red line) |
| Vle | Maximum landing-gear-extended speed |
| Vlo | Maximum landing-gear-operating speed |
| Vr | Rotation speed (takeoff) |
| V1 | Takeoff decision speed (multi-engine/transport) |
| V2 | Takeoff safety speed (multi-engine) |
| Vref | Landing reference (approach) speed |
| Vmc | Minimum control speed with the critical engine inoperative (twins) |
Airspeed indicator markings
| Marking | Range / meaning |
|---|---|
| White arc | Flap operating range (Vso to Vfe) |
| Green arc | Normal operating range (Vs1 to Vno) |
| Yellow arc | Caution range — smooth air only (Vno to Vne) |
| Red line | Never-exceed speed (Vne) |
Reference only — verify against the current FAA Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) and regulations before flight. More quick reference.