NavigationAirspeed Types

True Airspeed (TAS)

True Airspeed (TAS) is the actual speed of an aircraft through the air mass in which it is flying. It is calculated by correcting Calibrated Airspeed (CAS) for non-standard temperature and pressure altitude.

Key Points

  • •Increases with altitude compared to Indicated Airspeed due to decreasing air density.
  • •Used directly in navigation flight plans rather than indicated airspeed.
  • •Calculated using a navigation computer or electronic flight bag using outside air temperature (OAT) and pressure altitude.

Exam Relevance

TAS is essential for accurate navigational planning, calculating ground speed, and determining estimated times of arrival (ETAs).

Related Terms

indicated airspeedcalibrated airspeedground speed

Learn More

Dive deeper into navigation with our comprehensive study guide.

Navigation Study Guide →

Practice Navigation Questions

Test your understanding with exam-style questions.

True Airspeed (TAS) | The Pilot Exam