What does 14 CFR part 1 define VNO as?

The definition of VNO, according to 14 CFR part 1, is that it refers to the maximum structural cruising speed of an aircraft. This is the highest speed at which the aircraft can be safely flown in turbulent air without risking structural damage. VNO is crucial for pilots as it indicates the upper limit of normal operational speeds, beyond which the aircraft may experience increased stress, particularly if flying through turbulence. This speed is often marked by the yellow radial line on an airspeed indicator, serving as a guideline for safe flight operations.

In the context of aircraft performance, understanding VNO is fundamental for maintaining safety and ensuring that operations remain within the structural limits of the aircraft during normal flight conditions.