What should pilots understand about VMCG when referring to heavy aircraft?

VMCG, or minimum control speed on the ground, is an essential concept for pilots operating heavy aircraft. It represents the minimum speed at which an aircraft can maintain controlled flight with one engine inoperative during the takeoff roll.

For heavier aircraft, VMCG is indeed higher. This is because as the weight of the aircraft increases, the aerodynamic forces and inertia become more significant. Heavier aircraft require more control authority to maintain stability and prevent uncontrolled yaw when one engine fails. This necessitates a higher minimum control speed.

In terms of operational safety, understanding that VMCG increases with weight is crucial. Pilots must be aware that a takeoff cannot be safely conducted if the aircraft’s weight is above a certain limit, as the capabilities to maintain directional control will be compromised at lower speeds. Thus, for heavy aircraft, acknowledging that VMCG is higher aligns directly with the impact of weight on performance characteristics and handling during critical phases of flight like takeoff.