In flight mechanics, drag force refers to the aerodynamic force that opposes an aircraft’s motion through the air. It arises due to the interaction between the aircraft and the air molecules it encounters during flight. Drag force acts in the direction opposite to the aircraft’s velocity vector. Drag increases fuel consumption, requiring more fuel load, thereby adding to the gross weight of the aircraft. Additionally, it limits performance, potentially necessitating adjustments in payload or fuel quantities, impacting gross weight. Minimizing drag is a primary objective in aircraft design to enhance aerodynamic efficiency and overall performance. The formula to calculate Drag Force as follows:
Where:
- is the drag force in N,
- is the aircraft weight in kg,
- is the lift coefficient,
- is the drag coefficient.