For quicker Alt check the map for the highest alt feild nearest your take off point, (even if its 1-2 sectors away it helps) .
As for take off and climb out i run down the runway with flaps up until i get near Take off air speed (around 110) then lower flaps 1-2 clicks. Gain alittle alt (enough to not hit the ground ) level off retract the flaps and let the air speed increase ( 160-180) .
i then start climbing 1000-1200 fpm and set it with " Shift X " ,
Now watch your air speed at first it will drop 10-15 mph , but then it should hold steady and not drop anymore (if it keeps dropping your rate of climb is too great ,level off for a little bit then reset your climb rate est. 900fpm or so ,and hit shift X again.
If your Airspeed increases you can increase your rate of climb until it will hold a steady speed ,(not increasing or decreasing)
You do need to watch for wind directions,wind alts,and updrafts,
For when this happens you will have to reset your climb.
(airspeeds and rate of climb will change as this happens )
The speeds and rates of climb ive used here are for the B-17 , W/ 25-50 % fuel load , and any bomb load in it.
this is the fastest method i have found .
these directions work with any fighter/ bomber, they just have different climb rates and speeds .
you will find that the auto climb (RED light /alt X ) sets the plane to climb at 125mph and at as much fpm as the plane will climb to maintain that speed .
Now the .speed xxx command is ok if you know alot about each of the buffs fuel /load optimal rate of climb, and I have used it . but i've found that my method works easier and better.