What is the VSO speed for an aircraft?

The VSO speed, or the stall speed in the landing configuration, is a critical parameter in aviation, particularly for pilots to understand when preparing for landing and managing aircraft performance during flight. The VSO is the minimum speed at which an aircraft can be controlled in a specified landing configuration, usually with landing gear extended and flaps set to landing position.

In this context, the correct answer of 45 knots indicates that this figure represents the VSO speed for a specific category of aircraft. Every aircraft will have a different VSO speed that is determined by its design characteristics. Knowing the VSO is essential for pilots to avoid stalling during approach and landing.

Understanding the VSO helps pilots in determining the correct airspeeds for safe flight operations during landing phases. Accurate awareness of VSO ensures that pilots can engage appropriate techniques for landing approaches, flaring, and touchdown, which are essential for safe flying practices.