What airspeed should be used for turbulent air penetration?

The selection of an airspeed of 170 knots for turbulent air penetration is based on the principle of maximizing safety and aircraft control during turbulent conditions. This airspeed is typically above the aircraft's stall speed and provides a buffer to maintain control and stability when encountering unexpected turbulence.

The importance of this specific airspeed lies in the fact that it allows the aircraft to navigate through variations in air pressure and wind shear with a lower risk of structural stress. Flying at or near the maneuvering speed (V_a) can ensure that the aircraft remains responsive and reduces the likelihood of entering a stall.

Additionally, using the 170 knots airspeed enables pilots to maintain a better margin of control and ensures that the aircraft can withstand the effects of turbulence without compromising safety. This airspeed is often recommended in operational guidelines for handling turbulence, reflecting standard practices in flight safety and operations.

The other options may not provide the same balance of control and structural integrity as navigating at 170 knots, which is specifically chosen to be effective in turbulent conditions while ensuring the aircraft's performance capabilities.