Which V speed indicates the best rate of climb?

The V speed that indicates the best rate of climb is VY, which represents the speed at which an aircraft will achieve the greatest altitude gain over a given time. Flying at VY during a climb optimizes the performance of the aircraft's wings and engine, allowing for the most effective use of the aircraft's lift and thrust.

At VY, the aircraft is able to maintain a positive rate of climb while minimizing drag. This is particularly important in situations where altitude needs to be gained quickly, such as after takeoff or during an emergency climb. Understanding this speed is crucial for pilots, as it helps them make informed decisions to ensure safe and efficient flight operations.

The other speeds mentioned serve different purposes. For instance, VS is the stall speed in a specified configuration, which is important for understanding the minimum speed at which the aircraft can fly without stalling but does not indicate climb performance. VNE is the never exceed speed, a critical limit for safety during high-speed flight, and VFE denotes the maximum flap extended speed, which is relevant during approach and landing phases. These speeds do not pertain to optimal climb performance, highlighting the significance of VY in the context of rate of climb.