Work out aspect ratio of wing instantly with clear inputs, formula shown and shareable results.
Aspect ratio is span squared divided by wing area. It matters because induced drag is inversely proportional to it: CDi = CL squared divided by pi times aspect ratio times span efficiency. That is why gliders use very long thin wings and why winglets, which raise effective aspect ratio, cut cruise drag.
Aspect ratio
AR = span^2 / area; CDi = CL^2 / (pi x AR x e)
Aviation results are planning estimates only. Always verify take-off, landing, fuel, weight and balance figures against the certified Aircraft Flight Manual, current performance charts and applicable aviation regulations before flight.
Long thin wings are heavier for the same strength, are harder to fit in hangars and gates, and flex more. Structure and operations set the practical limit.
A factor near 0.7-0.9 describing how close the spanwise lift distribution is to the ideal elliptical shape. A value of 0.8 is assumed here.