What does the amber = sign along the airspeed scale indicate?

The amber equal sign along the airspeed scale indicates the next flap extended speed (VFE next). This speed is important for pilots as it signifies the maximum allowable airspeed at which the flaps can be safely extended to the next lever position. Operating at or below this speed ensures that the aircraft maintains control and structural integrity while transitioning through different flap settings, particularly during critical phases of flight such as approach and landing. Understanding VFE next helps ensure safe operation when configuring the aircraft for landing or when adjusting settings in flight, as exceeding this speed could lead to flap deployment issues or increased aerodynamic loads on the aircraft.