What should a pilot establish if they experience a loss of engine power during climb-out?

When experiencing a loss of engine power during climb-out, the pilot's primary goal is to maximize the distance they can glide to a safe landing area. This is where best glide speed becomes critical. Best glide speed is the airspeed at which the aircraft maintains the highest lift-to-drag ratio, allowing it to cover the most ground without engine power.

In the event of an engine failure shortly after takeoff, the pilot must quickly adjust their flight parameters to ensure adequate control and maximum distance. Achieving and maintaining best glide speed allows for better management of altitude while assessing possible emergency landing sites. This is essential for a successful outcome in any scenario of engine failure.

The other choices, while relevant at other times, are not the immediate priorities in the context of a sudden loss of engine power during climb-out. Best climb speed is important for maximizing the climb rate, best landing speed pertains to approach and landing phases, and best cruise speed is relevant for efficiency in level flight, making them less applicable during an emergency glide situation.