What is the recommended glide speed for an airplane?

The recommended glide speed for an airplane is the speed that provides the greatest forward distance traveled for each unit of altitude lost. This is often referred to as the best glide speed. When an aircraft is in a glide, maintaining this speed ensures that it can maximize its glide ratio, allowing the pilot to cover more horizontal distance while descending.

At this optimal glide speed, the aerodynamic lift-to-drag ratio is most favorable, which is crucial in gliding scenarios, especially in emergency situations where altitude must be conserved while trying to reach a suitable landing area. This speed varies by aircraft type and is typically published in the Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH) or the aircraft's flight manual.

Regarding other choices, while the speed that increases drag relates to the performance of the aircraft, it does not serve as a beneficial glide speed. The concept of stabilizing altitude is not pertinent in a glide, as the objective is to manage angle and rate of descent. Lastly, the indicated speed on the altimeter is not a measure of glide performance, as it does not directly relate to optimizing forward travel versus altitude lost.