What is the Never Exceed speed (VNE) for aircraft?

The Never Exceed speed, commonly referred to as VNE, represents the maximum speed an aircraft should not surpass under any circumstances to avoid structural damage or failure. This speed is critical for pilots to understand, as exceeding VNE could lead to dangerous aerodynamic conditions, such as control surface flutter or structural overload.

In the context of the options provided, the choice of 163 KIAS as the Never Exceed speed aligns with specific aircraft performance specifications, indicating that for that particular model, the structural integrity of the aircraft is guaranteed only up to this speed. This is particularly relevant to aircraft designed for general aviation that operate under the standards set by regulatory authorities.

Knowing the VNE is essential for maintaining safety during flight operations. It is commonly noted in the aircraft's Pilot Operating Handbook (POH) or Aircraft Flight Manual (AFM), and pilots are trained to recognize and respect this limit to ensure a safe flying experience.