How do you calculate a climb rate in feet per minute?

To calculate a climb rate in feet per minute, you must consider the true airspeed (TAS) and the climb gradient expressed in percentage. The climb gradient tells you the ratio of vertical altitude gained to horizontal distance covered during the climb.

When using TAS in the calculation, you ensure that the velocity component reflects actual air conditions, accounting for factors such as altitude and temperature which impact true airspeed. The formula involves multiplying the TAS by the climb gradient percentage to find the vertical speed, then dividing by 60 to convert the rate from feet per second to feet per minute, as there are 60 seconds in a minute.

This method captures the essential relationship between the airspeed of the aircraft and the effective climb performance, allowing for a more accurate understanding of the climb rate. In aviation, understanding climb performance is crucial for safety and efficiency during ascent phases of flight.