What is V2 and why is it critical after an engine failure?

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Multiple Choice

What is V2 and why is it critical after an engine failure?

V2 is the takeoff safety speed—the minimum speed you must have after liftoff to guarantee you can continue the takeoff and climb with one engine out, while still meeting obstacle clearance. It’s the speed at which the airplane has enough thrust on the remaining engine, plus enough control authority (elevator and rudder), to overcome the asymmetrical thrust and drag that come with an engine failure. Being at or above V2 gives you a reliable chance to achieve a positive climb gradient to clear obstacles, and then you can proceed with the normal takeoff profile (accelerating to Vy or Vyse as appropriate). The other terms listed refer to different speeds (landing reference, rotation, or stall) and don’t describe the engine-out takeoff safety requirement that V2 provides.

V2 is the takeoff safety speed—the minimum speed you must have after liftoff to guarantee you can continue the takeoff and climb with one engine out, while still meeting obstacle clearance. It’s the speed at which the airplane has enough thrust on the remaining engine, plus enough control authority (elevator and rudder), to overcome the asymmetrical thrust and drag that come with an engine failure. Being at or above V2 gives you a reliable chance to achieve a positive climb gradient to clear obstacles, and then you can proceed with the normal takeoff profile (accelerating to Vy or Vyse as appropriate). The other terms listed refer to different speeds (landing reference, rotation, or stall) and don’t describe the engine-out takeoff safety requirement that V2 provides.

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