What does 'VNO' stand for in aviation?

'VNO' stands for Maximum Structural Cruising Speed in aviation. It is the maximum speed at which the aircraft can be safely flown in turbulent air and is depicted by the green arc on the airspeed indicator. Operating the aircraft below this speed ensures that structural integrity is maintained while allowing for a margin of safety in turbulent conditions. Exceeding this speed can place undue stress on the airframe, especially in turbulent weather, which can lead to potential structural damage.

Understanding this speed is crucial for pilots as it helps them to manage the aircraft's performance safely and effectively during flight, particularly when transitioning from climb to cruising. The value of VNO is important in establishing safe operating limits during various phases of flight, ensuring that aircraft operations remain within prescribed structural parameters.