At what condition should an aircraft be operated to avoid damage during turbulence?

Operating an aircraft at maneuvering speed is crucial for avoiding damage during turbulence. Maneuvering speed, known as Va, is the maximum speed at which the aircraft can be safely controlled in turbulent conditions without the risk of structural damage. This speed allows the pilot to maneuver the aircraft effectively while ensuring that control surfaces are not overly stressed by the forces of turbulence.

At maneuvering speed, the aircraft is better able to handle abrupt changes in airspeed that turbulence may cause. If the aircraft encounters turbulence while operating below or above this speed, it runs the risk of overloading the wings and other structural components, potentially leading to damage. Maneuvering speed strikes a balance between adequate controllability and structural integrity during turbulent situations.

While other speeds mentioned may have specific aerodynamic significance, they do not prioritize structural safety in turbulence as effectively as maneuvering speed does. For instance, flying above Vne (never exceed speed) not only increases the likelihood of structural failure but also removes the capacity for controlled maneuvers. Flying below Vx (best angle of climb speed) doesn’t necessarily provide a benefit in turbulence, and operating at Vno (maximum structural cruising speed) might still expose the aircraft to substantial aerodynamic loads during turbulence, which could also lead to potential damage