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Wing loading is the total mass of an airplane divided by the wing area. If an airplane has a larger wing area relative to its mass it will have a low wing loading. An aircraft with a high wing loading has a smaller wing area relative to its mass.

As the airplane flies faster, it can increase the amount of lift generated by each unit of wing area. Faster airplanes typically have higher wing loadings than slower aircraft. Increased wing loading also increases the distance required for takeoff and landing. Higher wing loading will also decrease the maneuverability of the airplane.