How does an increase in weight affect Va?

The correct response highlights that Va, or Maneuvering Speed, increases with an increase in weight. This is a crucial concept in aircraft performance and safety.

Maneuvering speed is defined as the maximum speed at which full control surface deflection may be used without the risk of exceeding the aircraft's load factor limit. When an aircraft's weight increases, its stall speed also increases due to the higher stall angle of attack required to maintain level flight. Since Va is essentially a function of stall speed (it is typically calculated as a factor of the stall speed), an increase in weight will lead to a higher stall speed, which in turn raises the maneuvering speed to maintain safe handling characteristics.

This relationship is important for pilots to understand because operating below Va allows for more aggressive maneuvers without risking structural damage to the aircraft. Thus, as weight increases, Va must also increase to account for the changes in stall characteristics and ensure safety during maneuvers.