Enter your weight and the wing area into the calculator to determine your wing load.

Wing Load Calculation Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the wing load for paragliding, hang gliding, or other air sports.

Wing Load = Total Weight / Wing Area

Variables:

  • Total Weight is the combined weight of the pilot, gear, and glider (lbs)
  • Wing Area is the surface area of the wing (sq ft)

To calculate the wing load, divide the total weight by the wing area. This gives you the load per square foot of the wing.

What is Wing Load Calculation?

Wing load calculation is crucial for ensuring safe and efficient flight in air sports. It involves determining the load each square foot of the wing is subjected to during flight. Proper wing load calculation helps in achieving optimal performance and safety, affecting the glider’s speed, maneuverability, and stall characteristics.

How to Calculate Wing Load?

The following steps outline how to calculate the wing load using the given formula.

  1. First, determine the total weight, including the pilot’s weight, gear, and glider weight.
  2. Next, measure or obtain the wing area of your glider.
  3. Use the formula from above: Wing Load = Total Weight / Wing Area.
  4. Finally, calculate the wing load by plugging in the values.
  5. After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.

Example Problem:

Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.

Pilot Weight = 160 lbs

Glider Weight = 50 lbs

Gear Weight = 20 lbs

Wing Area = 200 sq ft

FAQ

1. What is wing load?

Wing load is the amount of weight carried by each square foot of a glider’s wing. It affects the glider’s performance, including speed, stability, and maneuverability.

2. How does wing load affect flight?

Higher wing load increases speed but decreases maneuverability and stall margin, while lower wing load offers better control and slower speeds.

3. How often should I use the wing load calculator?

Use the wing load calculator whenever there’s a change in your weight, gear, or glider, or if you want to ensure optimal flight performance.

4. Can this calculator be used for different types of gliders?

Yes, the calculator can be used for various gliders by adjusting the input fields to match the specific glider’s characteristics.

5. Is the calculator accurate?

The calculator provides an estimate of your wing load based on the inputs provided. For exact figures, it’s best to consult your equipment specifications or a flight instructor.