MJC Dash 8 Q400 maximum cruise speed?

Hi,

I've read (Wikipedia) that the maximum cruise speed of the De Havilland Dash 8 Q400 is 360 knots. In addition, I've observed Q400s routinely flying at speeds of 320+ knots on FlightAware at an altitude of 24,000 feet.

Given this, can anyone explain why the maximum speed indicator on the PFD (the red hatching) prevent me from flying over 252 knots or so at the same altitude (24,000 ft)? Has anyone been able to fly +300 knots? My flaps and gear are up, so I don't understand what the limitation could be.

Thanks for any advice!

Comments

  • Hi,

    I assume, you mixed up IAS (indicated airspeed) and TAS (true airspeed). Don't know, what your reference in Wikipedia was. But the Q400 is showing IAS. The difference btween IAS and TAS you also find explained in Wikipedia.

    Rgds
    Reinhard

  • Of course! You're right Reinhard, that is exactly what I did. My apologies, this is a rookie mistake. :-) Thanks a lot for the reply, much appreciated!

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