What is the implication of excess weight on an aircraft's stall speed?

Excess weight on an aircraft has a direct effect on stall speed, causing it to increase. Stall speed is defined as the minimum speed at which an aircraft can maintain level flight. When an aircraft is heavier, more lift is required to keep it in the air, which necessitates a higher speed to generate that lift.

As the weight of the aircraft increases, the angle of attack at which the aircraft can operate without stalling must also change. A heavier aircraft will reach its critical angle of attack at a higher speed. Consequently, when the weight goes up, the stall speed must also increase in order to maintain the required lift to support the heavier load.

Understanding this concept is critical for pilots, as it influences various phases of flight, including takeoff and landing. Managing excess weight is essential to ensure that the aircraft does not approach its stall speed during critical moments of flight.