What does the flight envelope define?

The flight envelope refers to the operational limits of an aircraft, which encompasses parameters such as airspeed, altitude, and load factor. This concept is crucial for pilots as it delineates the boundaries within which an aircraft can safely operate. The flight envelope is graphically represented in a way that shows how these variables interact, informing pilots about the safe and efficient performance range of the aircraft.

Understanding the flight envelope is essential for maintaining safe flight operations because exceeding these limits can lead to dangerous situations like stall, structural failure, or loss of control. By adhering to the defined flight envelope, pilots ensure that they operate the aircraft within a range that is known to be safe, thus optimizing performance and enhancing safety for both the aircraft and its occupants.