Define Vref and its role in the approach phase.

• A. Vref is the reference landing approach speed; usually linked to stall speed in landing configuration (often 1.3 × Vs).
• B. Vref is the maximum cruising speed.
• C. Vref is the maximum flap speed.
• D. Vref is the stall speed at takeoff.

Answer: (A)

Vref is the reference landing approach speed—the speed you aim to fly on the final approach with the landing configuration. It’s chosen to keep the airplane well above stall while still giving you precise handling and energy control for a safe flare and touchdown. In practice, Vref is typically a factor above the stall speed in the landing configuration (often about 1.3 times Vs). This margin accounts for gusts and pilot workload as you descend toward the runway, helping maintain a stable approach profile and adequate control authority.

So, Vref isn’t the maximum cruising speed, nor the maximum flap extension speed, nor the stall speed for takeoff. It’s specifically the target approach speed used for a safe, stabilized descent in the landing configuration.