Drag

Drag

What does Drag mean in aviation?

Understanding Resistance in Flight

Drag is the aerodynamic force opposing an aircraft's motion through the air, impacting fuel efficiency and speed.

Drag is the aerodynamic force that opposes an aircraft's motion through the air. It comes in various forms, including parasitic drag (caused by the aircraft shape and surface friction) and induced drag (associated with lift generation).

• Impact on Flight: Drag affects an aircraft's fuel efficiency, speed, and range. Minimizing drag is a key goal in aircraft design.
• Management in Flight: Pilots manage drag through various techniques, including optimizing speed and using devices like flaps and spoilers.
• Engineering Innovations: Aircraft designers continually develop new technologies and designs to reduce drag, enhancing the performance and efficiency of aircraft.

Drag is a fundamental force in aviation, impacting the performance and efficiency of aircraft, and is a critical consideration in both flight operations and aircraft design.