In terms of approach speed assignments, ATC may assign speeds greater than which limit?

The correct answer indicates that air traffic control (ATC) can assign approach speeds greater than 250 knots indicated airspeed (KIAS). This limit is significant because it relates to the operational requirements for various aircraft categories during their approach phase. For commercial air transport operations, 250 KIAS is a standard speed limit applied below 10,000 feet to facilitate controlled and efficient traffic flow.

When ATC assigns speeds greater than 250 KIAS during an approach, it typically reflects the need for faster aircraft to maintain spacing and manage the flow of traffic effectively, especially in busy airspace. Such assignments occur when it is safe and permissible, taking into account factors like the aircraft type, weight, and existing air traffic conditions.

In contrast, lower speeds like 200 KIAS, 300 KIAS, or 180 KIAS may not be appropriate references in this context as they do not reflect the maximum operational capacity that ATC might assign. Specifically, 300 KIAS usually exceeds the approach speed norms for commercial aircraft, and lower speeds like 200 KIAS or 180 KIAS are generally well within standard operational parameters under ATC guidance. Thus, the understanding of operational speed limits is crucial for pilots when complying with ATC instructions