Aviation Dictionary

Mach critical

The Mach speed at which some portion of the airflow over the wing first equals Mach 1.0. This is also the speed at which a shock wave first appears on the airplane.

Dictionary Term

Mach critical

Definition

The Mach speed at which some portion of the airflow over the wing first equals Mach 1.0. This is also the speed at which a shock wave first appears on the airplane.

References

Airplane Flying Handbook · Federal Aviation Administration · 2021