Which represents the speed range for Aircraft Performance Category C?

• A. 100-110 kt
• B. 121-140 kt
• C. 141-165 kt
• D. 166-210 kt

Answer: (B)

Speed ranges are used to classify aircraft by performance for planning and certification, so pilots know what performance to expect in different flight regimes. In this framework, Aircraft Performance Category C is defined by a mid-range speed band, which in the given chart corresponds to 121 to 140 knots. This band sits between the slower, more stable designs of the lower categories and the faster, higher-performance machines of the top categories, reflecting a balance of maneuverability and speed. The reason this range is the best fit is that it captures those aircraft that are faster than the slowest category but not yet in the higher-speed group, aligning with Category C’s intended performance level. The other options represent speeds either below or above this mid-range, which doesn’t match Category C’s designated band in the chart.