Wing loading

[Flyfishingpilot]

How does the wing loading number translate into flight characteristics?

The higher the number, the faster the wing, the more "responsive" the plane is? Is that correct?
What is considered a low or a high wing load? What's an average?

 

[Steve]

Glider discussion on wing loading effects.

http://www.sonic.net/~pjkelly/tsperf.html

Graph of wing loading values as a function of time (historical design development)

http://www.hq.nasa.gov/pao/History/SP-468/ch7-3.htm

wikipedia entry on the subject

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wing_loading

 

[Flyfishingpilot]

Thanks for the links Steve... some pretty interesting info

 

[poadeleted20]

While wing loading is a big factor in speed and ride characteristics, it is less so in maneuverability, which is affected far more by other factors.

 

[Anthony]

Higher wing loading helps the ride in turbulence. I noticed that going from my Cherokee to the Tiger.