AA.IV.B.K3FAA-S-ACS-11A · Nov 2023Knowledge
The operating envelope and structural limitations for the aircraft.
The operating envelope and structural limitations for the aircraft.
Bottom line
The aircraft in flight is limited to a regime of airspeeds and Gs that do not exceed the limit (or redline) speed, do not exceed the limit load factor, and cannot exceed the maximum lift capability. The aircraft must be operated within this “envelope” to prevent structural damage and ensure the anticipated service lift of the aircraft is obtained. As soon as the unusual attitude is detected, the recommended recovery procedures stated in the POH/AFM should be initiated.
Key numbers
| Number | What it means |
|---|---|
| 3.8 Gs load factor for aircraft certificated in the normal category, in which acrobatics are prohibited | Normal category |
| 4.4 load factor requirement for utility category aircraft | Utility category |
| 6.0 load factor requirement for acrobatic category aircraft | Acrobatic category |
| 225 mph limit airspeed for the aircraft in the example Vg diagram | Redline speed |
FAA references
- PHAK ch. 5 (p. 5-38) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
- IFH ch. 7 (p. 7-27) — FAA-H-8083-15B
- PHAK ch. 5 (p. 5-42) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
- AC 120-111 Appendix 1 — AC No: 120-111
- PHAK ch. 9 (p. 9-2) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
- IFH ch. 4 (pp. 4-12–4-13) — FAA-H-8083-15B
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