Weight and Loading

If you put too much weight on your unmanned aircraft, it will have trouble flying. An overweight unmanned aircraft could result in the following conditions or requirements:

• Higher takeoff speeds
• Longer takeoff and launch runs
• Reduced rate of climb
• Lower maximum altitude
• Shorter range
• Reduced cruising speed
• Reduced maneuverability
• Higher stalling speed
• Higher approach and landing speed; and
• Longer landing roll

Caution at High Density Altitudes

When flying in conditions where there is a higher density altitude (high altitude, high water vapor, etc. - remember back to our weather lectures), the UAV operator needs to be especially cautious about the loading of the unmanned aircraft, as extra load and high density altitude both decrease performance.