Which statement about V2 is true?

Which statement about V2 is true?

• A. V2 is the rotation speed
• B. V2 is the decision speed
• C. V2 is the maximum speed during takeoff
• D. V2 is the safe takeoff speed after V1 where the aircraft can continue to climb on one engine

Answer: (D)

V2 is the takeoff safety speed: the minimum speed in the takeoff flight path at which, if an engine fails at or just after V1, the airplane can continue the takeoff and climb on the remaining engine with the required positive climb gradient. This speed is set to guarantee obstacle clearance and a safe initial climb when one engine is inoperative, so you reach a height where you can safely continue. It isn’t the rotation speed (that’s Vr), nor the decision speed (that’s V1), and it isn’t the peak speed of the takeoff itself.

V2 is the takeoff safety speed: the minimum speed in the takeoff flight path at which, if an engine fails at or just after V1, the airplane can continue the takeoff and climb on the remaining engine with the required positive climb gradient. This speed is set to guarantee obstacle clearance and a safe initial climb when one engine is inoperative, so you reach a height where you can safely continue. It isn’t the rotation speed (that’s Vr), nor the decision speed (that’s V1), and it isn’t the peak speed of the takeoff itself.