What is the primary impact of increased drag on an aircraft?

The primary impact of increased drag on an aircraft is indeed increased fuel consumption. When drag increases, the aircraft requires more thrust to maintain its airspeed and altitude. This is because drag opposes the forward motion of the aircraft, effectively making the engines work harder to overcome this resistance. As a result, more fuel is burned to generate the additional thrust needed, leading to higher overall fuel consumption.

In aerodynamic terms, drag can arise from several sources, including form drag, induced drag, and skin friction. Regardless of the type, an increase in drag typically means that the aircraft must either increase its speed or alter its flight profile to compensate, both of which can lead to a further increase in fuel usage.

This understanding highlights why fuel efficiency is a critical consideration in aircraft design and operation. Managing drag through aerodynamic design and operational techniques directly influences fuel costs and environmental impacts, making awareness of drag's effects essential for pilots and aeronautical engineers alike.