Quick Facts
- Type
- Speed Reference
- Definition
- The actual speed of the aircraft through the air mass, corrected for altitude...
- Used By
- Pilots, Dispatchers
Definition#
True airspeed (TAS) is the speed of an aircraft relative to the undisturbed air mass. It is indicated airspeed corrected for position error, compressibility, and air density (altitude and temperature).
Why It Matters Operationally#
TAS is used for flight planning, navigation, and fuel calculations. At higher altitudes, TAS is significantly greater than IAS for the same dynamic pressure.
Related Guides#
- How Airplanes Fly — The Complete Aviation Fundamentals Guide
- Density Altitude Explained
- How Jet Engines Work (Turbofan vs Turboprop)