What does Vso represent in aviation terms?

Vso represents the stalling speed in the landing configuration of an aircraft. This is the minimum speed at which the aircraft can be controlled in a specific configuration when it is ready to land. It’s important for pilots to know Vso because flying below this speed could result in a stall, which can be particularly dangerous during landing phases when the aircraft is already in a slow flight condition.

Knowing the Vso is essential for understanding the aircraft's performance during landing, as well as establishing safe operating margins while approaching and landing. This helps pilots maintain control of the aircraft and navigate safely during critical phases of flight.

The other terms represent different flight characteristics but do not pertain to stalling speed in the landing configuration. For example, the best rate of climb speed focuses on the optimal speed for gaining altitude, never exceed speed indicates a limit that should never be surpassed to avoid structural damage, and max structural cruising speed is the maximum speed at which the aircraft can safely be flown in turbulent air. Each of these has its specific uses and definitions, but Vso specifically relates to stall speed in the context of landing maneuvers.