Loiter Mass in aircraft design refers to the total mass of the aircraft, including passengers, cargo, and remaining fuel, during the loiter phase of a flight. The loiter phase is when the aircraft hovers or orbits in a specific area, such as for surveillance, reconnaissance, or waiting for a specific task. Here’s the formula, definition, and SI unit for Loiter Mass
Formula for Loiter Mass: The formula for calculating loiter mass is the same as that for cruise mass, as the aircraft operates at a steady state during loiter. It’s the sum of the aircraft’s empty weight (EOW or OEW), the mass of passengers and cargo (payload), and the remaining mass of fuel on board during the loiter phase. Mathematically, it can be expressed as:
- Loiter Mass: The total mass of the aircraft, including passengers, cargo, and remaining fuel, during the loiter phase of the flight, typically measured in kilograms (kg) or pounds (lb).
- Empty Weight (EOW or OEW): The weight of the aircraft without any payload or fuel, typically measured in kilograms (kg) or pounds (lb).
- Payload: The combined weight of passengers, cargo, and any additional items carried on board, typically measured in kilograms (kg) or pounds (lb).
- Remaining Fuel at Loiter: The mass of fuel remaining on the aircraft at the beginning of the loiter phase, typically measured in kilograms (kg) or pounds (lb).