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CA.IV.G.K2FAA-S-ACS-7B · Nov 2023Knowledge

Best angle of climb speed (VX) and best rate of climb speed (VY).

ACS element text (the applicant demonstrates understanding of)

Best angle of climb speed (VX) and best rate of climb speed (VY).

Bottom line

VY is the best rate-of-climb speed: the airspeed that provides the most altitude gain in a given period of time. VX is used during a short-field takeoff to clear an obstacle.

Key numbers

Key numbers for Best angle of climb speed (VX) and best rate of climb speed (VY).
NumberWhat it means
100 fpm climb rate limitService ceiling

FAA references

  1. AFH Glossary (p. G-18) — FAA-H-8083-3C
  2. PHAK ch. 11 (p. 11-8) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
  3. AFH ch. 16 (p. 16-17) — FAA-H-8083-3C
  4. AIM 10-1-2 (Helicopter Instrument Approaches) — AIM Basic 2/20/25 w/ Change 1 (8/7/25) & Change 2 (1/22/26)
  5. SEA ch. 4 (p. 4-12) — FAA-H-8083-23
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