What does Vr speed refer to in aviation?

Vr speed, or rotation speed, is defined as the aircraft speed at which the pilot initiates the rotation of the aircraft to take off. It is a crucial point during the takeoff phase, indicating when the aircraft has reached a speed that allows for successful lifting of the nose off the runway. In essence, this speed ensures that there is enough aerodynamic lift generated to enable the aircraft to become airborne safely.

Understanding Vr is vital for pilots and crews as it factors into flight safety, performance calculations, and adjustments to different aircraft configurations. Factors such as weight, wind, and runway length can influence what Vr speed will be for a specific flight.