How do the best angle of climb and best rate of climb speeds change with increasing altitude?

The best angle of climb and the best rate of climb speeds are influenced by aircraft performance characteristics that change with altitude. As altitude increases, the air density decreases, affecting engine performance and the aircraft's aerodynamic capabilities.

The best angle of climb speed is designed to achieve the greatest altitude for a distance traveled; however, as altitude increases, this speed tends to decrease because the aircraft requires a higher angle of attack and more power to maintain lift. This results in lower overall efficiency in achieving distance per altitude gained compared to lower altitudes.

Similarly, the best rate of climb speed, which is aimed at achieving the maximum altitude over time, also decreases with altitude due to the same reduction in engine performance and lift capability. The aircraft struggles more to maintain climb performance because of the thinner air, which results in a performance drop.

Understanding these performance dynamics is essential for pilots, as they will need to adjust their flight profiles appropriately when operating at different altitudes to ensure efficient climbing and to reach desired operational altitudes effectively.