What adjustments can a pilot make to reduce drag during flight?

To reduce drag during flight, a pilot can focus on maintaining a clean configuration and proper speed management. A clean configuration refers to ensuring that the aircraft is free of any unnecessary drag-producing items, such as extending flaps, landing gear, or other protruding components. When the aircraft is in a clean configuration, its aerodynamic profile is optimized, leading to less resistance as it moves through the air.

Proper speed management is also critical since flying at speeds beyond or below the aircraft's optimum performance range can increase drag. For example, flying too slowly may cause the aircraft to approach the stall speed, which can cause increased induced drag. Conversely, exceeding the aircraft's designed maximum speed can generate additional profile drag and interfere with stability.

By managing speed effectively and ensuring a clean configuration, pilots can enhance their aircraft's performance, improve fuel efficiency, and maintain safer operating conditions.