Air Traffic Skills Assessment (ATSA) PracticeTest

What is the maximum indicated airspeed at which a pilot may operate an aircraft below 10,000 ft MSL unless otherwise authorized?

1. 200 knots

2. 250 knots

3. 300 knots

4. 350 knots

The correct answer is: 250 knots

The maximum indicated airspeed at which a pilot may operate an aircraft below 10,000 feet Mean Sea Level (MSL) is 250 knots. This regulation is in place to ensure safe aircraft operations in congested airspaces and to reduce the risk of wake turbulence, which can be hazardous to other aircraft flying at lower altitudes. In many controlled airspaces, particularly near airports where air traffic congestion is common, keeping aircraft below this speed helps maintain orderly and safe flight operations. This speed restriction is typically enforced unless the pilot has received specific authorization that allows for a higher speed under certain conditions. Such exceptions are usually granted for specific operational needs or during certain air traffic control instructions. Understanding this speed limit is crucial for pilots to ensure compliance with FAA regulations and maintain safety standards while flying in busy airspace.