What is the primary benefit of understanding and applying Vx speed?

Understanding and applying Vx speed, which is the best angle of climb speed, provides pilots with the ability to maximize altitude gain over a certain horizontal distance. This is particularly critical when taking off or climbing near obstacles such as trees, buildings, or terrain. By flying at Vx, pilots can achieve the highest altitude in the shortest horizontal distance, which is essential for safely clearing obstacles during departure.

In essence, Vx is especially important in situations where terrain or obstacles are present shortly after takeoff, as it enables the aircraft to gain necessary altitude without sacrificing safety. This is particularly relevant in mountainous or urban environments, where obstacles may be close to the runway. By understanding and appropriately applying Vx speed, a pilot can maintain safety margins while efficiently managing climb performance.