What is the best glide speed with the aircraft's landing gear down?

The best glide speed with the aircraft's landing gear down is 105 KIAS. This speed is crucial for maximizing glide distance and maintaining optimal control of the aircraft during a gliding phase. When the landing gear is extended, the aerodynamic drag increases, which means a lower airspeed is necessary to maintain the best lift-to-drag ratio.

At 105 KIAS, pilots can achieve a balance between maintaining adequate lift while minimizing drag, which allows for the most efficient descent profile during an emergency glide scenario. This speed ensures that the aircraft can glide further while also providing the necessary control to navigate safely to a landing site.

Higher speeds would result in reduced glide performance due to increased drag, which would not allow for the most effective use of the aircraft's aerodynamic capabilities in a glide situation. Thus, understanding and using the recommended best glide speed helps pilots make informed decisions during critical flight moments.