At what speed does a pilot initiate rotation during takeoff?

During takeoff, the pilot initiates rotation at VR, which stands for "Rotation Speed". This is a critical speed during the takeoff phase, as it signifies when the aircraft has reached the necessary airspeed to safely lift off the ground. At this moment, the pilot pulls back on the control yoke or stick to raise the nose of the aircraft, allowing it to ascend.

VR is determined based on various factors, including aircraft weight, configuration, and environmental conditions such as altitude and temperature. It is crucial for pilots to be aware of this speed to ensure that the aircraft is capable of becoming airborne without risking a stall or other adverse situations.

In contrast, the other terms represent different speeds relevant to aircraft operations. V1 is the maximum speed at which a decision can be made to continue the takeoff or reject it, and VMCG is the minimum control speed on the ground, which pertains to maintaining control during an engine failure during the takeoff roll. VA is the maneuvering speed, which is not directly related to the takeoff phase itself. Understanding these distinctions helps pilots manage the aircraft's performance effectively during takeoff.