What indicated airspeed provides the greatest gain in altitude at 3,200 feet?

• A. 100 KIAS
• B. 105 KIAS
• C. 112 KIAS
• D. 120 KIAS

Answer: (C)

In aircraft performance, the indicated airspeed that provides the greatest gain in altitude at a given altitude, such as 3,200 feet, is typically related to the aircraft's best rate of climb speed. This speed maximizes the vertical speed of the aircraft, allowing it to ascend more effectively.

The best rate of climb speed (Vy) is usually found at a specific indicated airspeed where the aircraft's performance is optimized for climbing. This speed balances lift and drag in such a way that it allows the aircraft to gain the most altitude in a given amount of time. The choice of an indicated airspeed close to this optimal speed, typically determined through performance charts provided by the manufacturer, is essential for achieving maximum climb performance.

In this case, the answer indicates that 112 KIAS is the optimal speed for achieving the greatest altitude gain at 3,200 feet. This likely corresponds with the aircraft's characteristics, such as its weight, configuration, and environmental conditions, which all influence climbing performance.

Other indicated airspeeds could result in less efficient climbs due to either insufficient lift production or increased drag. While they may still allow for climbs, they will not do so at the optimal rate as is achieved at 112 KIAS, which is