What is the significance of the yellow arc on the airspeed indicator?

The yellow arc on the airspeed indicator signifies the caution range. This range indicates that pilots should operate with extra care when flying within these speeds, as it is typically at the lower limits of the aircraft's safe operating speeds. The caution range is often where aerodynamic characteristics may start to change significantly, increasing the risk of stalling or other undesirable flight behaviors if the aircraft is not handled appropriately.

Riding the yellow arc means that the pilot must be particularly vigilant, as flying too close to the stall speed or experiencing adverse weather conditions can lead to compromised control of the aircraft. Understanding the caution range helps pilots make informed decisions during various phases of flight, particularly during maneuvers that involve lower speeds close to stall.

The other options do not accurately describe the significance of the yellow arc. There are specific markings on the airspeed indicator for cruise speed range, stall speeds, and the minimum speed, each signifying different operational parameters critical to flight safety and performance management.