What is the minimum final approach speed?

What is the minimum final approach speed?

• A. 105 knots
• B. 110 knots
• C. 115 knots
• D. 120 knots

Answer: (B)

Minimum final approach speed is the speed you fly on final when in landing configuration that provides enough stall margin to stay controllable through the approach. In practice, this is found by taking the airplane’s stall speed in landing configuration (Vs) and adding a safety factor, commonly about 1.3 times Vs, to account for gusts and small control inputs. If Vs in landing configuration is around 85 knots, multiplying by 1.3 gives roughly 110 knots, which is why 110 knots is the minimum final approach speed. Flying slower risks stalling before you touchdown, while higher speeds don’t improve safety and reduce the margin you have for gusts and adjustments.

Minimum final approach speed is the speed you fly on final when in landing configuration that provides enough stall margin to stay controllable through the approach. In practice, this is found by taking the airplane’s stall speed in landing configuration (Vs) and adding a safety factor, commonly about 1.3 times Vs, to account for gusts and small control inputs. If Vs in landing configuration is around 85 knots, multiplying by 1.3 gives roughly 110 knots, which is why 110 knots is the minimum final approach speed. Flying slower risks stalling before you touchdown, while higher speeds don’t improve safety and reduce the margin you have for gusts and adjustments.