What impact does increased drag have on an aircraft during flight?

Increased drag has a significant negative impact on an aircraft's overall performance efficiency. When drag is elevated, the aircraft encounters more resistance as it moves through the air. Consequently, this means that more thrust is required from the engines to maintain a particular speed. The engine must work harder to overcome the drag, which can lead to an increase in fuel consumption and overall operational costs.

Additionally, excessive drag can result in a reduced rate of climb and a decrease in the aircraft's maximum altitude capability, as the engines are less efficient in overcoming the forces acting against the aircraft. This can limit the aircraft's performance envelope, making it harder to maintain optimal flight conditions and navigate effectively.

Understanding the implications of increased drag is crucial for pilots and airline operations, as it directly relates to fuel economy and the effectiveness of the aircraft in different phases of flight.