Definition
A pitot-static flight instrument that displays the aircraft's rate of climb or descent in feet per minute by measuring the rate of change of static (atmospheric) pressure as altitude changes.
Plain English
A cockpit gauge that shows how fast the aircraft is going up or down, in feet per minute.
Context Anchor
Seen on the instrument panel during climbs, descents, level-offs, and instrument flying.
Derivation
The instrument has two common names that describe the same thing from different angles. 'Rate of climb' emphasises how fast the aircraft is gaining (or losing) altitude. 'Vertical speed' emphasises that it is the speed of movement in the vertical direction, just as airspeed is the speed of movement through the air. Both names point to the same measurement: feet per minute up or down.
Why Pilots Care
Pilots use it to maintain precise vertical speeds required by air traffic control clearances and instrument approach procedures, supporting safe and efficient flight path control.
Analogy
It is like a speedometer for up-and-down movement instead of forward movement.
Grounding Statement
If the aircraft’s altitude is changing, this instrument shows the rate of that change.
Intuition Check
Do not read it as a nose-up or nose-down indicator. It shows how fast altitude is changing, not the aircraft’s pitch attitude.
Example Sentence 1
After takeoff, the pilot pitched for a 700-foot-per-minute climb and confirmed it on the vertical speed indicator.
Example Sentence 2
On the approach, the rate-of-climb indicator confirmed a steady 500 feet per minute descent as cleared by approach control.