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. 500' AGL and 80 KIAS
• B. 900' MSL and 100 KIAS (up to 120 KIAS)
• C. 900' MSL and 90 KIAS
• D. 1000' MSL and 100 KIAS

Answer: (B)

Able and Baker departures use a fixed initial climb segment to keep departures predictable and safe. The standard plan is to climb to 900 feet above mean sea level while maintaining 100 knots indicated airspeed. You can accelerate up to 120 knots IAS once you’ve cleared the immediate hazards and are established in the departure corridor. Using MSL for the altitude accounts for different field elevations, and using KIAS for the speed ensures a consistent climb performance regardless of air density. This combination—900 feet MSL and 100 KIAS, up to 120 KIAS—provides a stable, efficient, and safe start to the flight.

Able and Baker departures use a fixed initial climb segment to keep departures predictable and safe. The standard plan is to climb to 900 feet above mean sea level while maintaining 100 knots indicated airspeed. You can accelerate up to 120 knots IAS once you’ve cleared the immediate hazards and are established in the departure corridor. Using MSL for the altitude accounts for different field elevations, and using KIAS for the speed ensures a consistent climb performance regardless of air density. This combination—900 feet MSL and 100 KIAS, up to 120 KIAS—provides a stable, efficient, and safe start to the flight.