The Pattern for Normal Approach line shows a KIAS range for the final approach. Which range is shown?

The Pattern for Normal Approach line shows a KIAS range for the final approach. Which range is shown?

• A. 60-80 KIAS
• B. 80-100 KIAS
• C. 100-120 KIAS
• D. 40-60 KIAS

Answer: (B)

The Pattern for Normal Approach line defines the recommended final approach airspeed window you should hold during the approach. For the MH-65E, that final-approach speed is in the 80–100 KIAS range. This band provides a stable, controllable descent with enough translational lift to keep the rotor in good lift and margin for gusts or weight changes, while avoiding the risks of going too slow (loss of rotor effectiveness, settling, or stall) or too fast (harder to decelerate and control, increased sink rate). The other ranges are outside this balanced window: slower speeds are unsafe for the final approach, and higher speeds exceed the published safe approach envelope.

The Pattern for Normal Approach line defines the recommended final approach airspeed window you should hold during the approach. For the MH-65E, that final-approach speed is in the 80–100 KIAS range. This band provides a stable, controllable descent with enough translational lift to keep the rotor in good lift and margin for gusts or weight changes, while avoiding the risks of going too slow (loss of rotor effectiveness, settling, or stall) or too fast (harder to decelerate and control, increased sink rate). The other ranges are outside this balanced window: slower speeds are unsafe for the final approach, and higher speeds exceed the published safe approach envelope.