What factor does increased Angle of Attack (AOA) primarily affect?

The Angle of Attack (AOA) is a critical parameter in aerodynamics that represents the angle between the oncoming air or relative wind and a reference line on the aircraft, typically the chord line of the wing. As the AOA increases, it significantly impacts the generation of lift.

When the AOA increases, the airflow over the wings changes, leading to an increase in lift up to a certain point known as the critical angle of attack. Beyond this critical angle, further increases in AOA can cause airflow to separate from the wing’s upper surface, resulting in a stall, where lift dramatically decreases.

In the context of UAS (Unmanned Aerial Systems), understanding the relationship between AOA and lift generation is critical for proper aircraft operation, especially during maneuvers that involve changes in pitch, climb, or descent. This is why increased AOA primarily affects lift generation, making it essential for safe and efficient flight operations.