FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot (UAG)OperationsMedium
A remote pilot is preparing for a sUAS flight in an area known for high winds. To ensure stable flight and maximize endurance, which type of drag should the pilot primarily focus on minimizing during the aircraft's design or operational setup?
- AParasite drag
- BInterference drag
- CWave drag
- DInduced drag
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Parasite drag
Parasite drag is the drag caused by the non-lifting parts of the aircraft and its overall shape, increasing with airspeed. In high winds, minimizing parasite drag helps the sUAS maintain stability and reduces the power required to overcome wind resistance, thereby maximizing endurance.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Interference drag is a component of parasite drag, but parasite drag is the broader, more encompassing term for this scenario.
- C. Wave drag is associated with supersonic flight, not relevant for sUAS.
- D. Induced drag is related to lift generation and is higher at lower airspeeds, not typically the primary focus for high wind stability.
Parasite Drag
Drag caused by the non-lifting components and shape of an aircraft, increasing significantly with airspeed.
- Includes form drag, skin friction drag, and interference drag.
- Increases proportionally to the square of the airspeed.
- Minimizing it improves efficiency and endurance, especially in high winds.
Memory trick: High winds mean 'Parasite' drag is the primary 'Pain' to prevent.