Va

[nwaA330]

Hey flight instructors/professional pilots...

Why does Va (maneuvering speed) decrease as weight decreases?

[screaming_emu]

Start out by drawing two pictures. Both of them being a wing, going the same airspeed, but one aircraft weighing more than the other. Which one has a higher angle of attack? Once you answer that, think about what the definition of maneuvering speed is. The heavier airplane is going to be closer to the critical angle of attack (where the wing will stall). Thus, if you yanked back on the controls in the lighter aircraft, it would take longer to get to the critical angle of attack than it would the heavier airplane. Clelar as mud? ;-)

[nwaA330]

That really does clear it up thanks a lot man!

[screaming_emu]

That really does clear it up thanks a lot man!

Any time, if you ever have any questions that need to be answered right away feel free to IM me too. Though if you have time, posting it on the forum would probably be better so that others can benefit. you got a stage comin up or somethin? Which course you workin on?

[ExpressJet145]

Joe is truely a great "instructor". Ive been there before with him... the dude knows whats up and how to teach :).

[Crism]

Joe you best get ready for my questions that'll be coming up in a few months :D

[screaming_emu]

Joe you best get ready for my questions that'll be coming up in a few months :D

was born ready.

Thanks for the nice comments Ryan.