Which speed is associated with the best angle of climb?

• A. Vy
• B. Vx
• C. Vs0
• D. Vne

Answer: (B)

The speed for best angle of climb is the one that gives the steepest climb path, meaning the greatest altitude gain for each mile traveled forward. This is why Vx is used: at this speed the airplane has just enough lift to climb while keeping drag in check, so the ratio of vertical progress to forward distance is maximized. In other words, you gain more altitude for each unit of forward travel, which is exactly what “best angle of climb” means.

Other speeds serve different purposes. Vs0 is the stall speed, the minimum speed to maintain control without stalling—below this you can’t climb. Vy is the speed for best rate of climb, which maximizes how fast you gain altitude vertically, but it doesn’t maximize the climb angle. Vne is the never-exceed speed, a safety limit.