FAA Airline Transport Pilot (ATM)Aircraft Performance and Weight and BalanceEasy
During a takeoff performance briefing, a first officer asks the captain to define V2. Which statement best describes V2?
- AThe maximum certified tire speed rating for takeoff
- BThe speed at which rotation should begin during a normal takeoff
- CThe maximum speed above which a rejected takeoff cannot be safely accomplished
- DThe target takeoff safety speed to be attained by 35 feet AGL and maintained through the initial climb following an engine failure
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. The target takeoff safety speed to be attained by 35 feet AGL and maintained through the initial climb following an engine failure
V2 (takeoff safety speed) is the minimum speed the airplane must reach by 35 feet AGL after an engine failure and must be maintained through the initial climb to acceleration height. It must be at least 1.13 Vsr (or 1.10 VMC, whichever is greater) to ensure adequate control and climb performance.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Tire speed limit relates to VMBE/ground speed limits, not V2.
- B. Rotation speed is VR, not V2.
- C. This describes a concept related to V1, not V2.
V2 (Takeoff Safety Speed)
The minimum climb speed that must be achieved by 35 feet AGL and maintained through initial climb after an engine failure at V1.
- Must be ≥1.13 Vsr
- Must be ≥1.10 VMCA
- Maintained through initial climb to acceleration height
Memory trick: V-One decides, V-R rotates, V-Two keeps you climbing safely to two-story height.