Ace the ERAU Commercial Checkride 2026 – Soar to New Heights!

True airspeed (TAS) is the speed of the aircraft relative to the surrounding air and is affected by atmospheric conditions, including altitude. As altitude increases, the air density decreases. To maintain the same power setting, an aircraft will need to fly faster in terms of TAS to generate enough lift. As a result, the true airspeed increases at higher altitudes.

At cruising altitudes, aircraft are typically designed to operate more efficiently, and flying at higher TAS can help optimize performance and fuel efficiency, taking into account the reduced air density. It's important to understand this principle for effective flight planning and performance calculations, especially during a commercial checkride where altitude considerations are crucial for safe operations.

The other options do not accurately reflect the relationship between TAS and altitude. For example, TAS does not remain constant; it actually changes with altitude and varies depending on the aircraft's configuration and operating conditions. Additionally, TAS is highly relevant at any altitude, including above 10,000 feet, as it directly influences aircraft performance and safety.