What is the recommended speed during the downwind leg of a landing approach?

During the downwind leg of the landing approach, maintaining an appropriate airspeed is crucial for safe and effective operations. The recommended speed of 85 KIAS is generally based on the aircraft’s configuration, weight, and the need to prepare for subsequent phases of the landing sequence.

Flying at this speed provides adequate handling characteristics, allowing the pilot to manage the aircraft's response to control inputs effectively. It ensures that the aircraft remains responsive while allowing enough time for the necessary procedures, such as configuring the aircraft for landing, completing checklists, and ensuring proper spacing from other aircraft.

This speed is also significant because it strikes a good balance between being slow enough to allow for maneuverability but fast enough to maintain sufficient control authority and performance margins.

Overall, 85 KIAS is a standard reference point for many general aviation aircraft, helping pilots to harmonize their approach procedures, which is critical for safe landings.