Define Vmo and Mmo and explain when each limit applies?

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Multiple Choice

Define Vmo and Mmo and explain when each limit applies?

Vmo and Mmo are two speed limits that cover different flight regimes. Vmo is the maximum operating indicated airspeed used at lower altitudes, where indicated airspeed (in knots) is the controlling measure for safe structural and buffet margins. As you climb, the air gets thinner and the aircraft’s speed limit shifts to a Mach number limit, so Mmo becomes the maximum operating Mach number used at higher altitudes. The two limits are tied together by altitude: below the altitude where the IAS corresponding to Mmo would be reached, the speed limit is Vmo; above that altitude, the speed limit is Mmo. At the transition point, the two limits meet. This is why the correct description says Vmo is the maximum operating indicated airspeed at low altitude, Mmo is the maximum operating Mach number at high altitude, and one limits speed depending on altitude.

Vmo and Mmo are two speed limits that cover different flight regimes. Vmo is the maximum operating indicated airspeed used at lower altitudes, where indicated airspeed (in knots) is the controlling measure for safe structural and buffet margins. As you climb, the air gets thinner and the aircraft’s speed limit shifts to a Mach number limit, so Mmo becomes the maximum operating Mach number used at higher altitudes.

The two limits are tied together by altitude: below the altitude where the IAS corresponding to Mmo would be reached, the speed limit is Vmo; above that altitude, the speed limit is Mmo. At the transition point, the two limits meet. This is why the correct description says Vmo is the maximum operating indicated airspeed at low altitude, Mmo is the maximum operating Mach number at high altitude, and one limits speed depending on altitude.

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