The maximum lift-to-drag coefficient, often denoted as (CL/CD)max, is a key performance metric used to assess the aerodynamic efficiency of an aircraft. It represents the highest achievable ratio of the lift coefficient (CL) to the drag coefficient (CD) for a given aircraft configuration, operating condition, and flight regime.
- (CL/CD)max is the maximum lift-to-drag ratio
- e is the Oswald efficiency factor
- AR is the aspect ratio of the wing
- CD,o is the zero-lift drag coefficient