This glossary is written for virtual airline and flight simulation use within Virtual Air Canada Airline. It is not intended as a real-world aviation reference.
VAPP
Approach Speed
VAPP is the target speed flown on final approach to landing. It is derived from the landing reference speed (Vref) - itself calculated at 1.23 times the stall speed in the landing configuration - and includes corrections for the reported surface wind and any gusts. The standard additive is typically half the headwind component plus the full gust increment, subject to a maximum addition defined in the aircraft’s performance documentation. VAPP ensures that the aircraft has adequate energy to handle wind variations close to the ground while not arriving excessively fast, which would compromise stopping performance.
On Airbus fly-by-wire aircraft, VAPP is the managed speed target for the approach and is set in the MCDU for the FMGS to target automatically. The system allows the crew to manually adjust VAPP within defined limits if conditions require. On Boeing aircraft, an Approach Speed is similarly calculated and set as a target on the mode control panel or speed intervention. The target speed is depicted on the PFD speed tape with a reference bug, and the autothrottle maintains it throughout the final approach segment. Stabilisation criteria for most airlines require the aircraft to be at VAPP - within defined tolerances - by 1,000 feet above field elevation in IMC and 500 feet in VMC.