The safe operation of jet airplanes operating in airlines around the world is governed by certain calculated values that ensure safe and efficient performance of an aircraft. The take-off speeds and power settings are, calculated by aerospace engineers, these are the most critical values for an aircraft.        

I will break down the important phases of a take-off for every passenger jet aircraft. Aircraft manufacturers may vary in terminology, but the basics will be the same.

A number of speeds are defined and taken into consideration before departure of an airline jet. The pilots will cross check these figures. First, there is a V1 speed which once attained the pilot must continue with the take-off. The next speed calculated is Vr (rotate). This is the speed at which the pilot flying will rotate the aircraft to the pre calculated attitude. The other important speed is V2. This is the safety climbout speed to be used in the initial portion of the climbout incase of an engine failure. When the pilots calculate their take-off performance they take into considerationrunway length, temperature, wind, and airport elevation and nearby obstructions.

I have compiled a list of common passenger jet planes below. If you click on a photo you will see the performance details for that plane. A return button when clicked will bring you back to this "index" page.