True airspeed (TAS)


The airspeed of an aircraft relative to undisturbed air. True airspeed is equal to equivalent airspeed multiplied by (ρ0/ρ)1/2. (FAR definition).

Actual airspeed, determined by applying a correction for pressure altitude and temperature to the CAS. (PHAK definition)

Source: Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (definition from the FAA-H-8083-25B, 2016; current: FAA-H-8083-25C, 2023, with the October 2025 addendum); 14 CFR 1.1, General definitions.

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Glossary last updated 2024-07-25.