VA, maneuvering speed

VA, or maneuvering speed, is the published indicated airspeed associated with the aircraft's structural response to a single abrupt control input. At or below the applicable VA, the aircraft is designed so that a full control input is more likely to produce an aerodynamic stall before the design limit load is exceeded, within the assumptions of the approved design.

What it governs

VA is not a universal speed and is not a permission to make repeated or simultaneous abrupt inputs. It can change with aircraft weight, configuration, and model variant. Many POHs publish a lower VA at lower weights. The aircraft handbook and placards provide the controlling value.

A stall can still occur above or below VA, and turbulence can impose loads without a pilot input. VA also does not protect against every structural failure mode. Pilots should use the turbulence and maneuvering guidance in the applicable POH or AFM.

Example

An aircraft POH lists different maneuvering speeds for different operating weights. A pilot checks the current weight and uses the corresponding published speed when operating in turbulence or maneuvering. The pilot avoids abrupt repeated inputs and follows the handbook's limitations.

Why it matters

Using the wrong VA can expose the aircraft to loads outside the assumptions behind the published value. Indicated airspeed, not true airspeed, is the usual cockpit reference for this limitation. The relationship can change as weight changes, so a single memorized number may be inappropriate.

This entry does not provide a VA value for any aircraft. Verify the current POH, AFM, placards, and aircraft-specific limitations before flight.

Related terms and tools

• Indicated airspeed
• VNE, never-exceed speed
• FAA Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge