VT speed, also known as Vt, is the Threshold speed for an aircraft.
Understanding Vt (Threshold Speed)
In aviation, V-speeds are standardized terms used to define velocities important to the operation of an aircraft. Among these, Vt specifically refers to the speed at which an aircraft crosses the landing runway threshold. This speed is crucial for calculating landing performance and ensuring a safe touchdown.
The provided references list Vt as follows:
| V-speed designator | Description |
|---|---|
| Vt | Threshold speed |
(Source: V speeds - Wikipedia)
Threshold speed is a critical parameter in the landing phase. It represents the speed the pilot aims for as the aircraft passes over the runway threshold at the approach height (typically 50 feet). Maintaining the correct Vt is essential for:
- Controlling the aircraft's energy state during the final approach.
- Ensuring adequate airspeed for flare and touchdown.
- Calculating required landing distance.
Pilots are trained to approach the threshold at or near the calculated Vt for the given conditions (aircraft weight, wind, flaps setting, etc.). Deviations from Vt can significantly impact landing safety and performance, potentially leading to a long landing, hard landing, or even a go-around.
While the references mention other speeds like VTD (Touchdown speed) and VTGT (Target speed), Vt specifically focuses on the speed at the threshold, marking a key point in the transition from approach to landing flare.
