QNE

QNE, or "aerodynamic quality," refers to the airspeed at which an aircraft's pitch attitude results in a steady, unaccelerated climb or descent, assuming a standard atmospheric condition. It is a specific speed that indicates the aircraft's critical angle of attack—meaning the point where the wing produces maximum lift without stalling. Understanding QNE helps pilots maintain safe flight parameters, especially during instrument navigation. Typically, QNE corresponds to the "corner" speed on the airspeed indicator, marked by the yellow radial line, and is important when flying at optimal lift conditions.