What effect does drag have on an aircraft?

Drag is a force that acts against the forward motion of an aircraft as it moves through the air. This resistance is a result of friction and differences in air pressure created by the aircraft's shape and surface area. As drag increases, it opposes the thrust produced by the engines, which ultimately leads to a decrease in the aircraft's speed.

In the design and operation of aircraft, managing drag is crucial for efficiency and performance. Pilots and engineers work to minimize drag through streamlined designs and flight techniques to maintain speed and fuel efficiency. Understanding the role of drag is fundamental for flight attendants and crew, as it is part of a broader understanding of aviation dynamics crucial for assessing flight performance and safety.