What are V1, Vr, and V2 and why are these speeds critical during takeoff?

• A. V1 is climb speed; Vr is rotation; V2 is maximum speed related to bank.
• B. V1 is the decision speed; Vr is rotation speed; V2 is the minimum takeoff safety speed with one engine inoperative; they define decision, rotation, and climb performance.
• C. V1 is landing speed; Vr is braking speed; V2 is stall speed.
• D. V1 is fuel efficiency speed; Vr engine start speed; V2 approach speed.

Answer: (B)

The speeds V1, Vr, and V2 are critical because they define the stages of a safe takeoff, including when to decide to continue or abort, when liftoff happens, and how the airplane can climb if an engine fails.

V1 is the decision speed. It marks the last point at which you can safely abort the takeoff and still bring the airplane to a stop on the remaining runway, given weight, runway length, and conditions. Once you pass V1, an engine failure or other issue requires you to continue the takeoff.

Vr is the rotation speed. At this speed you initiate the rotation to lift off, bringing the nose up so the airplane leaves the runway. It’s the point where liftoff begins and the aircraft transitions from ground roll to airborne flight.

V2 is the minimum takeoff safety speed with one engine inoperative. It ensures enough speed and climb capability to continue the takeoff safely if one engine fails at or before V1, and then to achieve a positive climb on one engine after takeoff.

These speeds together define the decision, rotation, and climb performance needed for a safe takeoff. The other options mix up what each speed represents, describing speeds associated with landing, braking, stall, fuel efficiency, or approach rather than the takeoff context.