What is the effect of weight on an aircraft's performance?

Increased weight necessitates higher lift because lift is the force that counters an aircraft's weight during flight. When an aircraft is heavier, the total weight that the lift must support increases. According to the principles of aerodynamics, for an aircraft to maintain level flight at a higher weight, it must generate enough lift to equal the weight. This can be achieved by increasing the airspeed, increasing the angle of attack, or increasing the wing surface area. Each of these adjustments helps to enhance the lift generated by the wings. As a point of reference, if the aircraft is at a certain altitude, increasing its weight can push it closer to stall conditions if the pilot does not compensate because stall occurs when the lift no longer meets or exceeds the aircraft's weight.