Plain English Meaning
The speed that gets you up to a desired altitude in the least amount of time.
Full Definition
The airspeed at which an airplane gains the most altitude in the shortest amount of time, commonly written as V Y. It produces the greatest altitude gain per unit of time, not per unit of distance.
Context Anchor
Seen during climb procedures, especially after takeoff when the pilot wants to gain altitude efficiently.
Why Pilots Care
Reaching a safe altitude quickly improves terrain clearance, weather avoidance, and traffic separation options.
Intuition Check
Best rate of climb does not mean the steepest climb path over the ground. It means the fastest altitude gain over time.