What does the abbreviation KIAS stand for in aviation?

KIAS stands for "Knot Indicated Airspeed," which is a critical measure in aviation used to represent the speed of an aircraft relative to the surrounding air. Indicated airspeed is measured directly from the aircraft's pitot-static system and is displayed on the airspeed indicator. It is essential for pilots to understand KIAS as it is used for various calculations related to takeoff, landing, and performance during flight.

While the other terms might sound plausible, they do not accurately reflect the definition recognized in aviation. "Instrument Airspeed" or similar phrases do not capture the full context of indicated airspeed, which specifically refers to the measurement provided by the airspeed indicator, as opposed to any navigational instruments or integrated systems. Therefore, KIAS serves as a crucial term in aviation safety, enabling pilots to make informed decisions during flight operations based on actual airspeed readings.