FAA Airline Transport Pilot (ATM)Navigation, Air Traffic Control and ProceduresEasy
An airline captain is descending through 11,000 feet MSL toward the destination airport, and ATC has not issued any speed restriction. What is the maximum indicated airspeed permitted below 10,000 feet MSL?
- A288 KIAS
- B250 KIAS
- C230 KIAS
- D200 KIAS
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. 250 KIAS
14 CFR 91.117(a) limits indicated airspeed to 250 knots below 10,000 feet MSL unless otherwise authorized by ATC or required by the aircraft's operating limitations.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 288 KIAS exceeds the regulatory limit and is not permitted without a waiver.
- C. 230 KIAS is not a recognized regulatory speed limit.
- D. 200 KIAS applies only under/within certain Class B shelf areas below 2,500 ft AGL near the primary airport, not generally below 10,000 MSL.
91.117 Speed Limits
Federal aviation regulation 91.117 establishes maximum indicated airspeeds in various airspace to enhance see-and-avoid safety and traffic flow.
- 250 KIAS max below 10,000 ft MSL
- 200 KIAS max below 2,500 ft AGL within 4 NM of Class B primary airport
- ATC may authorize higher speeds when necessary
Memory trick: Ten grand, two-fifty — keep it steady.