Boeing 777 landing speed is usually 130–155 knots. Learn how weight, flap setting, VREF, VAPP and wind determine the right target in any sim.
A Boeing 777 typically crosses the runway threshold at about 130–155 knots indicated airspeed in a flight simulator. The correct target is VAPP, based on the FMC’s VREF for the selected landing flap and actual weight, plus the required wind additive—often at least 5 knots—not one fixed speed.
In general flight simulation, including MSFS, X-Plane, Prepar3D and FSX, use indicated airspeed rather than groundspeed. Wind can make the groundspeed substantially higher or lower while the required indicated approach speed remains similar.
Which Boeing 777 landing speed should I use?
Use the VREF calculated on the 777 FMC’s approach reference page for your planned flap setting, then apply the appropriate wind correction to obtain the commanded approach speed.
- Confirm the landing weight. Make sure the FMC reflects the aircraft’s actual fuel and payload. Changing either through an external simulator menu may not update every add-on immediately.
- Select the landing flap. Flaps 30 is a common normal setting, while Flaps 25 generally produces a higher VREF.
- Read the FMC VREF. Choose the value corresponding to the flap setting you will actually use.
- Add the wind correction. With no aircraft-specific instruction to the contrary, VREF plus 5 knots is a practical baseline when using autothrottle.
- Set the commanded speed. Place that value on the MCP speed selector or speed bug as required by the simulated 777.
A commonly modelled Boeing wind correction uses half the steady headwind component plus the full gust increment, normally constrained to an additive between 5 and 20 knots. Procedures differ between operators and add-ons, particularly when autothrottle is engaged, so the aircraft’s documentation takes precedence.
For the rest of the configuration, localiser capture and flare sequence, follow our practical Boeing 777 approach and landing procedure.
Why does Boeing 777 landing speed change?
Boeing 777 landing speed changes mainly with landing weight, flap selection and wind rather than being fixed by aircraft type alone.
- Landing weight: A heavier aircraft needs more lift and therefore a higher VREF.
- Flap setting: Flaps 30 normally gives a lower reference speed than Flaps 25 at the same weight.
- Wind and gusts: These affect VAPP, the speed actually commanded on approach, rather than the basic VREF calculation.
- Variant and configuration: The 777-200, 777-300ER and freighter versions do not share one universal speed table.
- Abnormal configurations: Reduced flap, certain system failures or anti-ice procedures can require a higher target.
This is why memorising 140 or 145 knots is unreliable. Our explanation of how weight, VREF and wind produce the final approach target covers the underlying calculation.
Is VREF the Boeing 777 touchdown speed?
No; VREF is the reference speed used near the runway threshold, while VAPP is the commanded approach speed and the actual touchdown speed is normally lower after the flare.
The aircraft should usually cross the threshold at roughly 50 feet while close to the commanded speed. As thrust reduces and the nose is raised for the flare, indicated airspeed decays before the main landing gear touches down. Trying to hold VAPP all the way onto the runway can cause a long float.
Why does my 777 float or sink at the correct speed?
A 777 can float or sink despite a plausible speed indication when the selected reference value, aircraft configuration or approach energy is wrong.
- Floating: Check for a duplicated wind additive, excessive thrust, an early flare or VREF taken from the wrong flap line.
- Sinking: Check for insufficient thrust, a speed below VREF, premature thrust reduction or an aircraft heavier than the FMC calculation assumes.
- Apparently inconsistent speed: Verify that you are reading KIAS, not groundspeed, true airspeed or a simulator information overlay.
- Autothrottle chasing speed: Confirm that the speed mode is active, the throttles are not being overridden by noisy hardware and the aircraft is fully configured before the final approach.
Does autoland choose the correct landing speed?
No; autoland controls the approach, flare and rollout modes, but it still depends on the crew selecting the correct reference and commanded speed.
Some detailed 777 add-ons automate parts of the speed schedule, while simpler models require manual MCP speed changes. The required mode sequence and speed responsibilities are explained in our Boeing 777 autoland setup and mode guide.