Which of the following can cause an increase in stall speed?

An increase in stall speed occurs when the weight of the aircraft increases. Stall speed is defined as the minimum speed at which an aircraft can maintain level flight. As weight increases, the aircraft requires a higher angle of attack to create sufficient lift to counteract this increased weight. Consequently, this translates into a higher stall speed.

To maintain flight as the weight of the aircraft rises, the pilot must operate at a higher speed to provide adequate lift for the heavier mass. This relationship between weight and stall speed is critical for pilots to understand, as operating below the stall speed can lead to loss of control during flight.

Understanding this concept is crucial for pilots, as it emphasizes the importance of weight management and its impact on aircraft performance during various phases of flight, particularly during takeoff and landing.