What is pattern airspeed at all fields?

What is pattern airspeed at all fields?

• A. 70 KIAS
• B. 80 KIAS
• C. 60 KIAS
• D. 90 KIAS

Answer: (B)

Pattern airspeed is the fixed airspeed you maintain while flying the helicopter in the traffic pattern to keep the path predictable and energy levels stable. For the TH-73A Thrasher in training, the standard pattern airspeed at all fields is 80 knots indicated airspeed. Maintaining this speed provides a consistent turn rate and descent angle, which helps you keep proper spacing behind other traffic and manage energy effectively through the downwind, base, and final legs. If you fly noticeably slower, you can lose rotor authority and have trouble turning or descending predictably; if you fly noticeably faster, you’ll carry more energy into the pattern and may need more room and altitude on final. Using the same speed at all fields keeps handling consistent despite wind and traffic variations.

Pattern airspeed is the fixed airspeed you maintain while flying the helicopter in the traffic pattern to keep the path predictable and energy levels stable. For the TH-73A Thrasher in training, the standard pattern airspeed at all fields is 80 knots indicated airspeed. Maintaining this speed provides a consistent turn rate and descent angle, which helps you keep proper spacing behind other traffic and manage energy effectively through the downwind, base, and final legs. If you fly noticeably slower, you can lose rotor authority and have trouble turning or descending predictably; if you fly noticeably faster, you’ll carry more energy into the pattern and may need more room and altitude on final. Using the same speed at all fields keeps handling consistent despite wind and traffic variations.