PA.X.A.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. VYSE is the best rate of climb speed with one engine inoperative, marked with a blue 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 |
|---|---|
| VMC may increase more than 3 knots for each degree of bank less than 5 degrees | VMC bank effect |
| Loss of directional control possible at speeds almost 20 knots above published VMC with wings level | Level wings |
| Approximately 2 to 3 degrees of bank 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
- AFH ch. 13 (p. 13-37) — FAA-H-8083-3C
- PHAK ch. 9 (p. 9-3) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
- PHAK ch. 8 (p. 8-10) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
Build understanding you can use
Unlock the full lesson and continue studying this element.
- Full teaching sections: What it is; Key points; Rules and numbers; How it is done
- Check your understanding with answers you can reveal
- Common mistakes paired with the FAA facts that correct them