What does 'VNO' represent in aviation?

'VNO' stands for Maximum Structural Cruising Speed in aviation. This is the maximum speed at which the aircraft can be safely flown in turbulent air. It is typically depicted on the airspeed indicator with a green radial line above the green arc, which represents normal operating speeds. Operating an aircraft at or below this speed ensures that the structural integrity of the aircraft is maintained, as speeds above this limit might subject it to excessive aerodynamic forces during turbulence, potentially leading to structural damage.

The significance of VNO lies in its role in safe flight operations. It serves as a threshold above which the aircraft may experience increased loads due to turbulence, making it essential for pilots to remain aware of this speed during various phases of flight, especially in changing weather conditions.

Understanding this speed is critical, as it correlates with safe maneuvering and the overall performance of the aircraft under normal operating conditions.