FAA Sport Pilot Airplane (SPA)Aircraft Performance and SystemsMedium
On a typical airspeed indicator, the white arc represents which operating range?
- AA caution range requiring smooth control inputs only
- BThe normal operating range for cruise flight
- CThe flap operating range, from stall speed in landing configuration to maximum flap extended speed
- DThe range above which structural damage may occur
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. The flap operating range, from stall speed in landing configuration to maximum flap extended speed
The white arc extends from VS0 (stall speed in landing configuration) to VFE (maximum flap extended speed), indicating the range in which flaps may safely be operated.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Incorrect — the yellow arc represents the caution range.
- B. Incorrect — the green arc represents normal operating range.
- D. Incorrect — the red line/radial line marks never-exceed speed (VNE), not the white arc.
Airspeed Indicator Color Arcs
Color-coded markings on the airspeed indicator that denote specific operating speed ranges for the aircraft.
- White arc: flap operating range (VS0 to VFE)
- Green arc: normal operating range (VS1 to VNO)
- Yellow arc: caution range, smooth control inputs only
- Red line: never-exceed speed (VNE)
Memory trick: White is for wings with flaps down and slow