How does increasing weight affect stall speed?

Increasing weight has a direct impact on stall speed due to the relationship between weight and the aerodynamic forces acting on an aircraft during flight. Stall speed is defined as the minimum airspeed at which an aircraft is able to maintain level flight. As weight increases, the aircraft's required lift also increases to maintain level flight.

According to the lift equation, lift is proportional to the square of the airspeed. This means that to generate enough lift to counteract the increased weight, the aircraft must fly at a higher airspeed. Consequently, as the weight of the aircraft increases, the stall speed must also increase to maintain the necessary lift for safe flight.

This phenomenon is particularly significant because it affects pilot decision-making during takeoff, landing, and maneuvers at lower speeds. Understanding that the stall speed increases with weight allows pilots to adjust their flying techniques accordingly to avoid unforeseen stalls, particularly at heavy weights during critical phases of flight.