PA.IX.G.K2FAA-S-ACS-6C · Nov 2023Knowledge
VMC (red line) and best single-engine rate of climb airspeed (VYSE) (blue line).
VMC (red line) and best single-engine rate of climb airspeed (VYSE) (blue line).
Bottom line
VMC is the calibrated airspeed at which, following the sudden critical loss of thrust, it is possible to maintain control of the airplane. VMC is typically marked with a red radial line on most airspeed indicators. There is no requirement that the airplane be capable of climbing at VMC; VMC only addresses directional control.
Key numbers
| Number | What it means |
|---|---|
| more than 3 knots increase per degree of bank less than 5 degrees | VMC bank effect |
| loss of directional control possible almost 20 knots above published VMC with wings level | Level wings |
| approximately 2 to 3 degrees toward the operating engine at VYSE for most light twins | Zero sideslip bank |
FAA references
- AFH ch. 13 (pp. 13-1–13-2) — FAA-H-8083-3C
- FAA-P-8740-66, Flying Light Twins Safely — FAA-P-8740-66
- PHAK ch. 8 (p. 8-10) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
- PHAK ch. 9 (p. 9-3) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
- AFH ch. 13 (p. 13-37) — FAA-H-8083-3C
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