Which speed is the Best angle-of-climb speed?

• A. Best rate-of-climb speed
• B. Best angle-of-climb speed
• C. Stalling speed in landing configuration
• D. Cruise speed

Answer: (B)

Best angle-of-climb speed is the speed that gives the steepest climb path, meaning the most altitude gained for a given horizontal distance. This happens because the climb angle is effectively the ratio of climb rate to forward speed, and at this speed the aircraft achieves the greatest ratio by balancing excess power and drag. So you gain the most altitude while moving the least distance forward, which is why this speed is used to clear obstacles or terrain with minimal horizontal travel.

In contrast, the speed that yields the maximum climb rate gives you the fastest ascent in time, not the steepest path, so it climbs quickly but not as far sideways. Stalling speed in landing configuration is too slow to climb and can lead to a stall, and cruise speed is for level flight, not climbing.