What is indicated by the airspeed at point B in aircraft performance figures?

The airspeed indicated at point B in aircraft performance figures represents the maneuvering speed. Maneuvering speed, often denoted as Va, is the maximum speed at which full deflection of the controls can be applied without risking structural damage to the aircraft. It is crucial for pilots to understand this speed, as it dictates the safe operational limits when performing abrupt maneuvers or during turbulence.

When operating at or below maneuvering speed, the aircraft can be safely put into extreme maneuvers while minimizing the risk of exceeding load factors that could cause structural failure. Additionally, flying below maneuvering speed allows the pilot more control during stall recovery. This understanding is vital for maintaining aircraft safety, particularly in various flight conditions.

The other options do not appropriately describe the significance of the airspeed at point B. For example, landing speed refers to the speed at which an aircraft safely touches down, while normal operating speed encompasses the range of speeds during standard flight operations. Stall speed, on the other hand, is the minimum speed at which an aircraft can maintain controlled flight. Each of these is important, but they represent different phases of flight and operational limits than the maneuvering speed does.