What is the lowest speed an aircraft should travel with a load attached?

The lowest speed an aircraft should travel with a load attached is 60 knots. This speed is crucial for maintaining control and stability when airborne with a sling load. At 60 knots, the aircraft can generate enough lift and ensure that the load remains secure and stable, reducing the risk of thrashing or swinging that could occur with improper speed.

Flying at a speed lower than 60 knots may compromise the aircraft’s handling and the safety of the operational load, as the aerodynamic forces acting on the aircraft and the load may not be sufficient to counterbalance any unexpected movements or turbulence. Maintaining the proper speed helps in managing the risks associated with sling load operations, ensuring that the aircraft remains safe during maneuvering and avoids any rapid descent or loss of control that could result from flying too slowly with a load.