What is the maximum speed below which gear and flaps must be retracted?

The maximum speed below which the gear and flaps must be retracted is 150 KIAS. This is a critical speed in flight operations because it ensures that the aircraft is in a safe configuration for various phases of flight. Generally, as an aircraft descends and prepares for landing, certain speed thresholds dictate the proper handling of the landing gear and flaps to maintain control and structural integrity of the aircraft.

At speeds above 150 KIAS, pilots can safely retract the gear and flaps without risking complications such as reduced control effectiveness or increased drag. This threshold is established in regulatory guidance and safety protocols to enhance performance and maintain operational safety during approach and landing phases. Thus, understanding these speed limits is crucial for safe aircraft operation, especially in multi-engine and larger aircraft, where the implications of gear and flap configurations can significantly affect performance.