Which speed is described as the minimum speed that may be flown until flap retraction altitude?

Which speed is described as the minimum speed that may be flown until flap retraction altitude?

• A. V2+20
• B. Vfto
• C. V1
• D. 200 knots

Answer: (A)

The speed you hold with flaps still in the takeoff configuration until you reach the flap retraction altitude is chosen to guarantee safe climb performance, even if an engine fails. V2 is the minimum speed you need to maintain a positive, controllable climb with one engine inoperative. Adding a cushion—20 knots in this context—gives margin for gusts, trimming or control accuracy, and the acceleration loss that can occur during flap retraction. This minimum ensures you stay well above stall and retain adequate climb capability right up to the point where you retract the flaps, after which you accelerate toward the cruise/clean configuration. Other options don’t fit this phase of flight. V2+20 is specifically about maintaining a safe margin while still in the takeoff-flap regime up to the flap retraction altitude. Vfto is a flap-setting related speed used earlier in the takeoff profile, not the minimum speed to hold during the climb up to FRA. V1 is the decision speed used for abort considerations, not the speed to hold after takeoff. A flat 200 knots is not a defined minimum for this phase and would generally be inappropriate for many takeoff configurations.

The speed you hold with flaps still in the takeoff configuration until you reach the flap retraction altitude is chosen to guarantee safe climb performance, even if an engine fails. V2 is the minimum speed you need to maintain a positive, controllable climb with one engine inoperative. Adding a cushion—20 knots in this context—gives margin for gusts, trimming or control accuracy, and the acceleration loss that can occur during flap retraction. This minimum ensures you stay well above stall and retain adequate climb capability right up to the point where you retract the flaps, after which you accelerate toward the cruise/clean configuration.

Other options don’t fit this phase of flight. V2+20 is specifically about maintaining a safe margin while still in the takeoff-flap regime up to the flap retraction altitude. Vfto is a flap-setting related speed used earlier in the takeoff profile, not the minimum speed to hold during the climb up to FRA. V1 is the decision speed used for abort considerations, not the speed to hold after takeoff. A flat 200 knots is not a defined minimum for this phase and would generally be inappropriate for many takeoff configurations.