Structural implications of aspect ratio
Aspect ratio also influences wing loads. High aspect ratio wings have longer span with shorter cord lengths than low aspect ratio wings. Longer span means higher bending moments. Shorter cord means less cross section of the wing. There are practical limits from a structural strength perspective that place upper bounds on aspect ratio. Glider designs are able to achieve very high aspect ratios by keeping weight very low. Aircraft designed to carry a significant amount of payload located in the fuselage must find a design solution with a smaller aspect ratio.