SIFT Army Aviation Practice Test 2025 – Complete Exam Prep

As the speed of the helicopter increases, both parasitic drag and profile drag become more significant.

Parasitic drag consists of two components: form drag, which is caused by the shape of the helicopter, and skin friction drag, which arises from the interaction of the helicopter’s surface with the air. As the helicopter’s speed increases, the airflow around it changes, causing the drag from the air resistance to increase.

Profile drag, a subset of parasitic drag, specifically refers to the drag associated with the helicopter’s rotor blades and fuselage as they move through the air. This type of drag increases with speed because, at higher velocities, the rotor blades encounter more air molecules, leading to an increase in resistance.

Thus, as a helicopter gains speed, both parasitic drag and profile drag escalate, significantly impacting overall drag forces acting on the aircraft. This understanding is crucial for pilots and engineers when designing and operating helicopters, optimizing performance, and managing fuel efficiency.