Takeoffs and climbs
When you transition from single-engine aircraft to multi-engine aircraft, it is very important that you understand the significance of the V-speeds for takeoff, and climbs.
You have to know the different V-speeds, for a normal takeoff, VMC minimum control airspeed,
VR rotation speed, VLOF liftoff speed, VY best rate of climb speed, and VYSE best rate of climb speed with one engine inoperative.
The V in V-speeds represents velocity, and the V-speeds that ends with SE refer to Single-Engine, meaning that one engine is inoperative.
During a normal takeoff the most common student error is uneven power application, directional problems can also occur if one engine becomes inoperative due to rapid power application.
Another common student error is excessive speed during the ground run and the following departure climb.
This is often the result by the student giving to much attention to the engine instruments, or improper trim control.
This is something that needs to be addressed to the student, from the very first lessons, otherwise it can be hard to get rid of these bad habits.
The rotation speed VR on takeoff must be appropriate for the individual airplane.
Although FAA have a recommendation, that the liftoff speed should not be lower then VMC +5 Knots.
After liftoff when a positive rate of climb has been established, and when it is no longer practical to land on the remaining runway you can retract the landing gear.
Then when you have raised the flaps, you can accelerate to VY, by lowering the pitch slightly.
You should remain at VY until a safe maneuvering altitude is reached.
Maximum performance takeoff and climb
When you have become proficient on the normal takeoff and departure, your instructor will introduce, maximum performance takeoffs and climbs.
At this level you also need to have, high level of proficiency in airspeed controls and airplane handling characteristics.
You also need to be familiar with the air speeds and one engine out speeds.
The takeoff should be planned so that rotation occurs at the correct speed, liftoff should be followed by a maximum performance climb at VX, until the obstacle is cleared at least 50 ft AGL.
After the obstacle is cleared the airspeed should be accelerated by lowering the pitch and establish an airspeed of VY +5 knots to avoid high pitch angle.
After this the climb should be continued to a safe maneuvering altitude, then the power can be reduced.
Below are some common errors by students.
Improper positioning of flight controls or wing flaps.
Improper power application.
Inappropriate removal of the hand from the throttles during takeoff and climb.
Improper directional control, and use of aileron and rudder to adjust this.
Rotation at improper airspeed.
Failure to establish and maintain proper climb configuration and airspeeds.
Tomorrow we continue with approaches and landings.
Do you want to learn to fly Multi-Engine aircraft?
Contact Andreas Rosquist at andreas.rosquist@faaflighttraining.com