In what situation would induced drag decrease?

Induced drag is a type of drag that occurs as a result of lift generation and is influenced by the angle of attack and airspeed. As the airspeed of an aircraft increases, the lift generated for a given angle of attack becomes more efficient, which in turn reduces the induced drag. This is because at higher speeds, the aircraft can maintain the necessary lift with a lower angle of attack, directly decreasing the lift-induced drag.

When aircraft speed increases, the airflow over the wings becomes more streamlined and effective in creating lift, which mitigates the effects of induced drag. Thus, flying at a higher airspeed decreases induced drag, making it a key consideration in optimizing flight performance.

In contrast, increasing aircraft weight contributes to an increased induced drag because more lift must be generated to support the heavier aircraft, often requiring a higher angle of attack. Decreasing speed increases the angle of attack necessary to maintain lift, thereby increasing induced drag as well. Flying at a higher altitude can also affect induced drag, but primarily through changes in air density and performance characteristics rather than directly decreasing it.