What is the recommended approach speed for landing a Cessna 152?

The recommended approach speed for landing a Cessna 152 is 60 KIAS (Knots Indicated Airspeed). This speed is considered optimal as it provides a proper balance between control and safety during the approach and landing phases of flight. At this speed, the aircraft maintains a favorable margin above stall speed while allowing the pilot to comfortably manage descent rate and altitude.

Flying at the correct approach speed helps ensure better handling characteristics, allowing for responsive control inputs while on final approach. It also aids in achieving a smooth landing by enabling the pilot to maintain the aircraft’s stability, facilitating effective use of flaps and landing gear as needed.

Selecting either a slower or faster approach speed can result in increased risk; slower speeds can risk stalling, while faster speeds may complicate landing and require longer distances to stop safely. Thus, 60 KIAS is effectively the target approach speed that ensures safety while allowing precision in landing the aircraft.