Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Practice Exam

What does Vmo/Mmo represent in flight operations?

1. Maximum speed in level flight with maximum continuous power

2. Maximum landing gear extension speed

3. Never exceed speed

4. Minimum unstick speed

The correct answer is: Never exceed speed

Vmo (Maximum Operating Velocity) and Mmo (Maximum Mach Operating), collectively referred to as Vmo/Mmo, represent the never exceed speed for an aircraft. This speed is critical because exceeding either of these limits can lead to structural failure or loss of control of the aircraft. Vmo is typically defined as the maximum speed that an aircraft can safely fly at sea level, while Mmo applies to speeds at higher altitudes, expressed in terms of Mach number. Both values are established during the aircraft's design and testing phases, ensuring that pilots maintain safe operational limits. In the context of the other options, maximum speed in level flight with maximum continuous power refers to a different aspect of performance and is not about structural limits. Maximum landing gear extension speed is also a separate operating parameter that dictates when the landing gear can be safely deployed without risk of structural damage. Minimum unstick speed is concerned with the speed at which an aircraft can safely take off without risk of stalling, which is not related to the limitations set by Vmo/Mmo. Thus, the choice that defines what Vmo/Mmo represents in flight operations is the never exceed speed, as this is crucial for maintaining safety during all phases of flight.