Plain English Meaning
How many feet the aircraft is moving up or down each minute. A reading of 500 fpm climbing means the aircraft is gaining 500 feet of altitude every minute.
Full Definition
A unit of vertical speed expressing how many feet an aircraft climbs or descends in one minute. Displayed on the vertical speed indicator (VSI) and used to set and monitor climb and descent rates.
Context Anchor
Seen during climbs, descents, and level-offs, especially when using the instrument panel’s vertical-speed indication to judge how quickly altitude is changing.
Why Pilots Care
Precise fpm control prevents altitude overshoots and keeps maneuvers smooth and comfortable.