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  • 'V-speeds' Shorthand notation of significant speeds within an aircraft's flight envelope (see table).
  • variable geometry Capable of grossly changing shape in flight, especially by varying sweep of wings.
  • variable pitch Propeller with its blades held in rotary bearings in the hub, so that pitch (of all blades in unison) can be altered in flight. See constant speed; compare ground- and flight-adjustable pitch.
  • VDU Video (or visual) display unit.
  • vectored Capable of being pointed in different directions.
  • vertrep Vertical replenishment.
  • VFR Visual flight rules.
  • VHF Very high frequency.
  • VLF Very low frequency (area-coverage navaid).
  • VMS Vehicle management system.
  • VOR VHF omnidirectional range (network of VHF radio beacons each providing to/from bearing).
  • vortex generators Small blades attached to wing and tail surfaces to energise local airflow and improve control.
  • vortillon Short-chord fence (particularly on MD-80 series) ahead of and below leading-edge.
  • VSI Vertical speed (climb/descent) indicator.
  • V/STOL Verical/short take-off and landing.