If ATC advises you to use the best forward speed, can you go faster than 250 kts below 10,000 ft?

If ATC advises you to use the best forward speed, can you go faster than 250 kts below 10,000 ft?

• A. Yes, ATC can lift the limit.
• B. Only in turbulent weather.
• C. Yes, if you are above 5000 ft.
• D. ATC does not have the authority to lift the 250 KIAS.

Answer: (D)

The speed you’re allowed to fly below 10,000 feet is a fixed regulatory limit: 250 knots indicated airspeed. This limit isn’t something ATC can lift or override with a phrase like “best forward speed.” ATC can suggest or assign speeds for spacing and traffic flow, but they cannot authorize you to exceed this limit. That’s why the best answer is that ATC does not have the authority to lift the 250 KIAS restriction. The other choices imply that ATC can permit a higher speed or that the limit changes with weather or altitude, which isn’t the case here. If ATC says to use a best forward speed, you still must stay under 250 KIAS below 10,000 ft and follow the regulation unless you’re explicitly cleared to operate at a higher speed under a separate ruling or restriction.

The speed you’re allowed to fly below 10,000 feet is a fixed regulatory limit: 250 knots indicated airspeed. This limit isn’t something ATC can lift or override with a phrase like “best forward speed.” ATC can suggest or assign speeds for spacing and traffic flow, but they cannot authorize you to exceed this limit.

That’s why the best answer is that ATC does not have the authority to lift the 250 KIAS restriction. The other choices imply that ATC can permit a higher speed or that the limit changes with weather or altitude, which isn’t the case here. If ATC says to use a best forward speed, you still must stay under 250 KIAS below 10,000 ft and follow the regulation unless you’re explicitly cleared to operate at a higher speed under a separate ruling or restriction.