What is the Vx speed in cruise configuration?

What is the Vx speed in cruise configuration?

• A. 57 KIAS
• B. 58 KIAS
• C. 60 KIAS
• D. 44 KIAS

Answer: (C)

Vx is the speed for the best angle of climb—the climb path that gives the steepest climb relative to horizontal distance, which is crucial when obstacle clearance is needed on departure. In cruise configuration for the DA20-C1 (flaps and gear up), the published Vx is 60 KIAS. At this speed the airplane achieves the steepest climb angle without getting into a stall, giving the most altitude gained per mile of forward travel. If you fly slower, you approach stall and the climb angle isn’t as steep; if you fly faster, the climb angle decreases even though you gain more vertical speed, so obstacle clearance isn’t as favorable. Therefore, 60 KIAS is the correct value for Vx in cruise configuration.

Vx is the speed for the best angle of climb—the climb path that gives the steepest climb relative to horizontal distance, which is crucial when obstacle clearance is needed on departure. In cruise configuration for the DA20-C1 (flaps and gear up), the published Vx is 60 KIAS. At this speed the airplane achieves the steepest climb angle without getting into a stall, giving the most altitude gained per mile of forward travel. If you fly slower, you approach stall and the climb angle isn’t as steep; if you fly faster, the climb angle decreases even though you gain more vertical speed, so obstacle clearance isn’t as favorable. Therefore, 60 KIAS is the correct value for Vx in cruise configuration.