How many extra knots of airspeed need to be traded to reach approximately 0.1 to 0.2 nautical miles in horizontal distance?

To reach a horizontal distance of approximately 0.1 to 0.2 nautical miles, trading a specific amount of airspeed is essential for maintaining control while descending. In general, when flying at a steady altitude, an increase in airspeed correlates with a longer distance traveled over the ground.

In this context, losing altitude efficiently while transferring that height into horizontal distance requires a balance of airspeed and descent rate. An increase of around 10 knots is typically necessary to achieve the specified horizontal distance—this figure is grounded in the general rule of thumb used by pilots when determining descent profiles. By trading this amount of airspeed, pilots can effectively manage their descent path to cover the desired distance without losing control of the aircraft's performance characteristics.

The other figures—5 knots, 15 knots, and 20 knots—either do not provide adequate distance or may potentially lead to a steeper or uncontrolled descent, imbuing less precision and increasing the risk of missing the targeted distance. Thus, 10 knots becomes the most efficient and recommended amount to balance descent and horizontal movement effectively while maintaining safety and flight integrity.