(A1) A turbofan engine (10) is provided that includes a spool (14). The spool (14) supports a turbine (18) and is housed within a core nacelle (12). A fan (20) is coupled to the spool (14) and includes a target operability line. The target operability line provides desired fuel consumption, engine performance, and/or fan operability margin. A fan nacelle (34) surrounds the fan (20) and core nacelle (12) to provide a bypass flow path (39) having a nozzle exit area (40). A controller (50) is programmed to command a flow control device (41) for changing the nozzle exit area (40). The change in nozzle exit area (40) achieves the target operability line in response to an engine operating condition that is a function of airspeed and throttle position. A change in the nozzle exit area (40) is used to move the operating line toward a fan stall or flutter boundary by manipulating the fan pressure ratio.