Which aircraft performance factor increases with added weight?

Study for the Transport Canada Private Pilot License Test. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

When considering how aircraft performance factors change with increasing weight, stalling speed is a critical aspect. As the weight of the aircraft increases, the stalling speed also increases. This is because a heavier aircraft requires a higher angle of attack to generate enough lift to remain airborne at slower speeds. Consequently, the stall speed, which is the minimum speed at which the aircraft can maintain level flight, rises in proportion to the aircraft's weight. Therefore, as you add weight, the aircraft must go faster to achieve the same lift, leading to an increased stalling speed.

In contrast, while the takeoff distance and landing distance do increase with weight, those factors can be influenced by other variables, including engine power and environmental conditions. Climb rate tends to decrease with added weight, as a heavier aircraft does not climb as effectively as a lighter one due to reduced power-to-weight ratio. This context helps clarify how increased weight directly correlates with elevated stalling speeds in aviation.

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