Normal takeoff and climb — Vx, Vy, and the takeoff-segments
A **normal takeoff** is initiated on a paved runway with headwind and no obstacles. Rotation speed (Vr) is aircraft-specific; a typical training aircraft rotates between 55–60 KIAS. After liftoff, the pilot accelerates to and climbs at **Vy (best rate of climb)** — the airspeed that yields the greatest altitude gain per unit of time. For a Cessna 172, Vy is ~74 KIAS at sea level, decreasing with altitude.
**Vx (best angle of climb)** yields the greatest altitude gain per unit of horizontal distance — used for obstacle clearance on a short-field takeoff. For a C172, Vx ≈ 62 KIAS at sea level, increasing with altitude. Vx and Vy converge at the airplane's absolute ceiling.
**Crosswind technique (AFH ch. 5):** on the takeoff roll, hold full aileron into the wind and gradually reduce as speed increases. After liftoff, establish a crab (wings level, fuselage offset into the wind). Do NOT use the wing-low/sideslip method after liftoff — that is a landing-phase technique.
The pilot-in-command must not attempt a takeoff when the demonstrated crosswind component of the aircraft (published in the POH) is exceeded — 14 CFR 91.103 requires familiarity with all available information.