Definition
A climb gradient of 96 feet per nautical mile, used as the standard required climb performance for the missed approach segment on Copter GPS approaches. It defines the minimum vertical distance the helicopter must gain for every nautical mile flown along the ground over the missed approach path.
Plain English
For every nautical mile the helicopter travels forward during the missed approach, it must climb at least 96 feet upward.
Context Anchor
Seen in FAA helicopter GPS approach discussions where obstacle clearance and protected climb paths are described.
Why Pilots Care
Confirms the helicopter can safely clear terrain and obstacles when flying instrument procedures at reduced performance.
Grounding Statement
Over 3 nautical miles, 96 feet/NM equals 288 feet of vertical change or clearance.
Intuition Check
Do not read 96 feet/NM as 96 feet per minute, and do not read it as an altitude to hold. It means 96 feet for each nautical mile of horizontal travel.
Example Sentence 1
Before flying the Copter GPS approach, the pilot confirmed the helicopter could maintain at least 96 feet/NM on the missed approach at the current weight and temperature.
Example Sentence 2
The pilot verified the helicopter could sustain 96 feet/NM before accepting the GPS approach in marginal weather.