Which GPWS mode corresponds to altitude loss after takeoff or go-around?

• A. Excessive descent rate
• B. Altitude loss after TO or GA
• C. Below GS deviation
• D. Unsafe terrain clearance while in LDG config

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that GPWS warnings are organized to match specific unsafe situations. In the moment right after takeoff or a go-around, the aircraft is supposed to be climbing. If it instead loses altitude, there’s a dedicated GPWS alert for that exact scenario. This mode is designed to warn you when you’re not achieving the expected climb after liftoff or after initiating a go-around, signaling that the airplane could be getting too close to terrain or obstacles if the climb doesn’t resume. It’s distinct from the warning for excessive descent rate, which triggers when the aircraft is descending too quickly during other phases of flight. It’s also not about being below the glide path, which would relate to approach guidance, nor about terrain clearance warnings while in the landing configuration. So, the altitude loss after takeoff or go-around mode is the one that specifically flags that early-stage climb issue.