Originally Posted by
RichardJones
Weight does not effect the glide range within certain parameters. It does effect the TAS. Heavy = Fast.
Originally Posted by
Capn Bloggs
Incorrect. That is what the thread is all about. Doubleback's explanation is spot-on.
Weight has a direct effect on the "gliding" aka idle-thrust descent range because we are descending at the same speed. The higher the weight, the more descent distance a jet needs at the ATC speed.
You are both right,
under different conditions.
If speed is unconstrained, then best glide angle is the same at all weights. But at a higher weight, that best glide angle is achieved at a higher speed.
If speed is constrained to a certain number, then glide angle (not best, just glide angle) is shallower at a higher weight.