SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/comm-vx-best-angle

Which speed gives the most altitude gained in a given horizontal distance, useful for clearing an obstacle?

VX, the best angle of climb speed.

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  1. VY
  2. VA
  3. VX ✔

Why: VX is the best angle of climb speed, so you gain the most height per mile of ground covered. VY is different: it gives the most height per minute.

Huh, didn't know that: As altitude increases, the best angle and best rate of climb speeds move together until they meet at the absolute ceiling.

The dad joke
Why did VX get all the credit for the tall trees? It always went up at an angle that made a point.
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References

Answer: VX. VX is the best angle of climb speed, so you gain the most height per mile of ground covered. VY is different: it gives the most height per minute.

  1. FAA Safety Briefing, May/June 2015 www.faasafety.gov/files/events/SO/SO15/2024/SO15133906/AircraftPerformance.pdf
    VX speed for best angle of climb
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  2. FAA Safety Briefing, May/June 2015 www.faasafety.gov/files/events/SO/SO15/2024/SO15133906/AircraftPerformance.pdf
    VY speed for best rate of climb
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  3. FAA Safety Briefing, May/June 2015 www.faasafety.gov/files/events/SO/SO15/2024/SO15133906/AircraftPerformance.pdf
    VX and VY are equal
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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