Structural Cruising Speed

Lesson Objective

The candidate will learn what Maneuvering Speed (V_NO) is, what hazards are associated with this speed.  The instructor and student will fly together in dual practice, and accelerate to V_NO, for at least a few moments, to get a feel for the stick sensitivity at this speed.  

Regulatory Requirement

• Pre-Solo: §61.87(i)(8)
• Private Pilot: PTS - V

Completion Standards

• successful demonstration of flight to the V_NO speed, appropriate for the conditions and the glider

• Dictate the maximum structural cruising speed for the club gliders
• Explain the hazards associated with turbulence above V_NO
• Explain the influence of aircraft loading on the speed of V_NO
• Explain the differences between V_A and V_NO
  

Prerequisite Study

• § 1.2  Abbreviations and symbols.

• Glider Flying Handbook "Maximum Structural Cruising Speed", page 4-3
• V-Speeds -- Wikpedia article on V-Speeds