« Back to Glossary Index
Definition of CAS
Calibrated Airspeed (CAS) is a measurement of the speed of an aircraft through the air, adjusted for differences in atmospheric pressure and temperature. It is the airspeed indicated on the cockpit airspeed indicator, which is calibrated to account for errors due to installation, manufacturing tolerances, and instrument drift. CAS provides a more accurate indication of an aircraft’s true airspeed than Indicated Airspeed (IAS), which is the uncorrected reading on the airspeed indicator. As such, CAS is used to control the aircraft during flight and for determining performance calculations, such as takeoff and landing distances. CAS is also used in the design and testing of aircraft, as well as in air traffic control.
« Back to Glossary Index