You are cruising at speed 'X' EAS for max range. What is the speed when you climb and target for maximum range?

• A. Slower
• B. Faster
• C. Unchanged
• D. Much faster

Answer: (A)

The idea is to stay on the most fuel-efficient part of the flight envelope as you progress toward the range goal. The speed that gives the best lift-to-drag ratio (L/D max) is the speed you’d use for maximum range in level cruise. When you start a climb, however, the aircraft’s power needs and drag characteristics change, and maintaining the same max-range cruise speed isn’t as efficient for the distance you still have to fly. Flying slightly slower during the climb reduces the power required per mile and helps conserve fuel for the remaining distance, so the climb is performed at a speed below the cruise max-range value. Once you reach the desired altitude, you can resume the max-range speed for the cruise portions.