What does wing loading measure?

Wing loading is a crucial concept in aerodynamics and aviation that refers to the ratio of the aircraft's weight to the total wing surface area. This ratio helps to understand how much weight is distributed over a given area of the wing, influencing an aircraft’s performance characteristics such as lift, maneuverability, and stall speed.

A lower wing loading indicates that the aircraft can generate more lift at lower speeds, which is particularly beneficial during takeoff and landing. Conversely, a higher wing loading generally results in higher stall speeds and reduced maneuverability, making it suitable for aircraft designed for high-speed flight. By considering wing loading, pilots and engineers can make informed decisions about aircraft design and performance capabilities.