During Able and Baker departures, what is the initial climb altitude and airspeed?

During Able and Baker departures, what is the initial climb altitude and airspeed?

• A. 1000' MSL and 120 KIAS
• B. 500' AGL and 80 KIAS
• C. 900' MSL and 100 KIAS (up to 120 KIAS)
• D. 900' MSL and 120 KIAS

Answer: (C)

Able and Baker departures use a fixed, conservative initial climb profile to ensure obstacle clearance and predictable performance right after takeoff. The published start is to climb to 900 feet above mean sea level at 100 knots indicated airspeed, with the option to accelerate up to 120 knots as you clear obstacles and continue the departure. Using 900' MSL standardizes the altitude regardless of field elevation, giving a consistent margin above terrain and structures. Beginning the climb at 100 KIAS provides a stable, controllable rate of climb suitable for a training helicopter, while still allowing an increase to 120 KIAS once you’re clear of immediate obstacles or when the procedure specifies. Other options don’t fit the standard profile because they use a different altitude reference (like AGL instead of MSL) or a speed that’s either too slow to maintain stable climb or too fast for the initial segment of the departure.

Able and Baker departures use a fixed, conservative initial climb profile to ensure obstacle clearance and predictable performance right after takeoff. The published start is to climb to 900 feet above mean sea level at 100 knots indicated airspeed, with the option to accelerate up to 120 knots as you clear obstacles and continue the departure. Using 900' MSL standardizes the altitude regardless of field elevation, giving a consistent margin above terrain and structures. Beginning the climb at 100 KIAS provides a stable, controllable rate of climb suitable for a training helicopter, while still allowing an increase to 120 KIAS once you’re clear of immediate obstacles or when the procedure specifies. Other options don’t fit the standard profile because they use a different altitude reference (like AGL instead of MSL) or a speed that’s either too slow to maintain stable climb or too fast for the initial segment of the departure.