Originally Posted by
NoyGonnaDoIt
Va decreases with weight but that's a continuous process, so I'm not sure what you are referring to.
But, if you're asking why Va decreases with weight..
Originally Posted by
fjetter
The definition of Va from the PHAK "The maximum speed where full, abrupt control movement can be used without overstressing the airframe"
The reason for the range of speeds 88-111 in a Warrior is based on weight
88 = Max Gross Takeoff Weight
111 = Basic Empty Weight
Va INCREASES with weight!
This is how I've always thought about it. Va is the highest speed at which you can have maximum deflection without hurting the airplane.
A lighter airplane is more "flickable." It responds faster to control inupts and is more easily overloaded. A lower airspeed is required to prevent the airplane from "flicking" too fast and putting too much stress on the airframe.
A heavier airplane would be more "sluggish," it won't respond as quickly to control inputs. Instead of jerking into a roll like a light airplane would if you went full deflection, the heavier airplane would do more of a slow roll with full deflection, allowing for a faster airspeed to be used with that full deflection.