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Old 13th Jan 2007, 23:12
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J.O.
 
Join Date: Feb 2006
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Fair enough, but it seems there is a confusion of terminology in the FCOM (unfortunately, not an uncommon Airbus manual characteristic). Maneuvering speed (Va) for all aircraft is defined as "the maximum airspeed for full control deflection" (see FCOM 3.04.10 pg 3). For the Airbus fly-by-wire fleet, this only applies when the aircraft is in alternate law or direct law, where the ECAM tells us to "maneuver with care". To find the correct value for Va, you have to refer to the table found in FCOM 3.01.20 pg 4a. The lowest value shown on that chart is 245 kts, considerably higher than your typical "S", "F" or Green Dot speed for the A320.

To find the proper definitions for "S", "F" or "Green Dot", look in FCOM 3.04.10 pg 2.
Characteristic Speeds:
F - minimum speed at which the flaps may be retracted at takeoff. In approach, used as a speed target when the aircraft is in CONF 2 or CONF 3.
Represented by "F" on the PFD speed scale. Equal to about 1.18 Vs to 1.22 Vs of CONF 1 + F.
S - minimum speed at which the slats may be retracted at takeoff. In approach, used as a speed target when the aircraft is in CONF 1.
Represented by "S" on the PFD speed scale. Equal to about 1.22 Vs to 1.25 Vs of clean configuration.
O - Green Dot Speed.
Engine out operating speed in clean configuration. (Best lift to drag ratio speed).
Corresponds also to the final takeoff speed.
Represented by a green dot on the PFD airspeed scale.
Below 20,000 ft equal to 2 x weight (in tonnes) + 85
Above 20,000 ft, add 1 kt per 1,000 ft.

Last edited by J.O.; 14th Jan 2007 at 02:49.
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