The zero lift drag coefficient, CD0, quantifies an aircraft’s drag when it produces no lift at zero angle of attack. It’s a dimensionless parameter determined by the body’s shape, surface characteristics, and other non-lift generating factors. Lower CD0 values signify reduced drag during level flight, enhancing fuel efficiency and overall aerodynamic performance. Higher demands more thrust, while lower improves fuel efficiency. The formula to calculate Zero lift drag coefficient as follows:
Where:
- is the zero-lift drag coefficient.
- is the lift coefficient.
- e is the Oswald efficiency factor.
- AR is the aspect ratio of the wings.