Chapter 4: Small Unmanned Aircraft Loading  Effects of Weight 33  Remote Pilot – Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Study Guide  Any item aboard an aircraft that increases the total weight is undesirable for performance.  Manufacturers attempt to make an aircraft as light as possible without sacrificing strength or safety. The pilot should always be aware of the consequences of overloading. An overloaded aircraft may  not be able to leave the ground, or if it does become airborne, it may exhibit unexpected and  unusually poor flight characteristics. If not properly loaded, the initial indication of poor  performance usually takes place during takeoff. Excessive weight reduces the flight performance in almost every respect. For example, the most  important performance deficiencies of an overloaded aircraft are: The pilot must be knowledgeable about the effect of weight on the performance of the particular  aircraft being flown. Excessive weight in itself reduces the safety margins available to the pilot and  becomes even more hazardous when other performance-reducing factors are combined with excess  weight. The pilot must also consider the consequences of an overweight aircraft if an emergency  condition arises.  • Higher takeoff speed • Longer takeoff run • Reduced rate and angle of climb • Lower maximum altitude • Shorter range • Reduced cruising speed • Reduced maneuverability • Higher stalling speed • Higher approach and landing speed • Longer landing roll