Vy is defined as which climb speed?

Vy is defined as which climb speed?

• A. Best Angle of Climb Speed
• B. Best Rate of Climb
• C. Maximum Rate of Climb
• D. Best Rate of Climb Speed

Answer: (D)

Vy is the airspeed that yields the greatest climb rate, meaning the maximum altitude gain per unit time at your current weight and conditions. This happens because climb performance depends on excess power (power available minus power required); at Vy this excess power is maximized, giving the fastest ascent. It’s the speed you’d choose when you want to climb quickly after takeoff or to reach cruise altitude efficiently. It’s not the speed for the greatest distance gained per horizontal travel (that’s the best angle of climb, Vx). The precise term that matches this concept is Best Rate of Climb Speed.

Vy is the airspeed that yields the greatest climb rate, meaning the maximum altitude gain per unit time at your current weight and conditions. This happens because climb performance depends on excess power (power available minus power required); at Vy this excess power is maximized, giving the fastest ascent. It’s the speed you’d choose when you want to climb quickly after takeoff or to reach cruise altitude efficiently. It’s not the speed for the greatest distance gained per horizontal travel (that’s the best angle of climb, Vx). The precise term that matches this concept is Best Rate of Climb Speed.