In aviation terms, what does the abbreviation V2 represent?

V2 refers to the takeoff safety speed, which is a critical speed during the takeoff phase of flight. This speed is the minimum speed at which an aircraft can maintain controlled flight in the event of an engine failure after takeoff. V2 ensures a safe climb gradient, allowing the aircraft to clear obstacles while also providing a margin of safety for the pilots to manage the aircraft's performance in case of an emergency.

This speed is determined based on several factors, including aircraft weight, configuration, and environmental conditions. It is vital for pilots to know and respect V2 during takeoff because it contributes to the aircraft's ability to remain airborne safely after losing power from one of the engines. Understanding V2 is essential for effective flight operation and is a key consideration in flight planning and performance calculations.