What is the best glide airspeed typically set at?

The best glide airspeed is crucial for maximizing the distance an aircraft can travel while gliding after an engine failure. This airspeed varies by aircraft type, but it is generally recommended to be set at a speed that balances lift and drag, allowing the aircraft to cover the greatest horizontal distance before descending.

Setting the best glide airspeed nominally at 65 knots indicated airspeed (KIAS) reflects a careful consideration of the aircraft's flight characteristics. This speed typically represents a point on the power-off performance chart where the rate of descent is lowest, and the glide ratio is optimized. Flying at this speed ensures that the pilot can give the aircraft the best possible chance of reaching a suitable landing area.

A lower or higher speed may result in a steeper descent that could prevent reaching the desired target or lead to increased drag, consequently decreasing the aircraft's glide capability. Thus, 65 KIAS is often seen as a safe and effective benchmark, reflecting a balance of safety and performance in emergency scenarios.