Lift-to-Drag ratio, measures how efficiently a jet aircraft generates lift relative to drag. A higher L/D ratio indicates better aerodynamic efficiency. This parameter is crucial for optimizing fuel efficiency and enhancing the aircraft’s range. Aircraft with sleek designs and minimized drag aim for higher L/D ratios. A higher L/D ratio enhances jet aircraft endurance by allowing them to cover more distance with the available fuel. Additionally, it lowers Specific Fuel Consumption, making the aircraft more fuel-efficient by reducing drag and optimizing lift. The formula to calculate (L/D)max as follows:
Where:
- E is the Endurance in sec.
- C is the specific fuel consumption in Kg/Ws.
- Wstart is the Weight at start of Loiter Phase in kg.
- Wend is the Weight at end of Loiter Phase in kg.
- (L/D)max is the Maximum lift-to-drag ratio of aircraft.