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Never Exceed Speed

The article "Slow Down, You Move Too Fast" (January 2011) was enlightening. While Mr. Gibbs statements are logical, it would be helpful to have a reference describing this in more detail. Would you please provide a reference that explains the aerodynamic theory or aircraft certification process that substantiates Mr. Gibbs explanation? Although I find Aviation Safety very useful, I cannot use it as a sole reference when providing instruction.

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • An article by Steven Gibbs proposing V_NE (Never Exceed Speed) as True Airspeed (TAS) generated significant reader skepticism, as most official aircraft documentation (POH/AFMs, TCDS) specifies V_NE in Indicated Airspeed (IAS).
  • Readers requested clarification and substantiation for Gibbs' claim, highlighting the discrepancy with established flight training and certification practices.
  • The magazine clarified that while V_NE is often simplified as IAS, its real-world limit, especially concerning aerodynamic flutter, is significantly affected by air density at higher altitudes, making a TAS interpretation or altitude-adjusted IAS crucial for certain aircraft and modern high-altitude operations.
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The article “Slow Down, You Move Too Fast” (January 2011) was enlightening. While Mr. Gibbs statements are logical, it would be helpful to have a reference describing this in more detail. Would you please provide a reference that explains the aerodynamic theory or aircraft certification process that substantiates Mr. Gibbs explanation? Although I find Aviation Safety very useful, I cannot use it as a

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