In flight mechanics and aerodynamics, “minimum thrust required” refers to the amount of thrust an aircraft’s engines must generate in order to maintain a specific flight condition with the least possible excess thrust. This condition is important for optimizing the aircraft’s performance, particularly in terms of fuel efficiency and endurance.
Tmin=(2*w*√Cd0*k)
- : This represents the minimum thrust required for level flight at a specific configuration. It’s the thrust needed to balance the drag forces acting on the aircraft and maintain level flight with the least possible excess thrust.
- : This stands for the weight of the aircraft. The weight is a key factor affecting the minimum thrust required; heavier aircraft require more thrust to maintain level flight.
- : This represents the zero-lift drag coefficient, which encompasses the aircraft’s parasite drag components such as skin friction and form drag when the aircraft is producing no lift (at zero angle of attack).
- : This is a constant or factor that likely incorporates various aerodynamic and engine-related characteristics of the aircraft.