Wing load refers to the weight carried by an area of wing.
Parameters:
(1) total loaded weight of the plane
(2) area of the free wing (wing able to provide lift)
wing load =
= (total weight) / (total area)
Units: kg per square meter or lbs per square foot or Newtons per square meter.
1 kg per square meter = 9.81 N per square meter (reflects gravity).
One reason to have a smaller wing is to reduce drag and to increase speed. Having a smaller wing means higher wing loading. The plane can get adequate lift if it goes faster but maneuverability may be worse and the plane will have a higher take-off and landing speed. Some planes have Fowler flaps that can expand wing area to lower landing and take-off speeds.
The highest wing loading is typically at take-off because of the higher weight. Weight can change from fuel consumption or dropping of bombs or supplies.
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