RC Plane Wing Loading Calculator
Compute an RC airplane's wing loading from weight and wing area to judge whether it will float or fly hot.
How it works
Wing area = span × chord · Wing loading = weight ÷ wing area (g/dm² or oz/ft²)
Wing loading is all-up weight divided by wing area, and it largely sets how an RC plane behaves. Low wing loading means the wing carries little weight per unit area, so the plane flies slowly and forgivingly — ideal for trainers and gliders. High wing loading needs more speed to stay airborne, giving faster, less docile flight typical of warbirds and pattern ships. Comparing loading is the quickest way to gauge a model's temperament before it leaves the ground.
Worked example
A 1500 g model with a 140 cm span and 24 cm chord has 140 × 24 = 3360 cm² = 33.6 dm² of wing. Loading is 1500 ÷ 33.6 ≈ 44.6 g/dm² (about 14.6 oz/ft²) — a gentle sport-trainer.
Sources: Wing loading (Wikipedia)
Frequently asked questions
What wing loading is good for a beginner?
Trainers typically sit below about 50 g/dm² (roughly 16 oz/ft²) so they fly slowly and recover gently. As loading climbs past 65–100 g/dm², the plane needs more speed and skill to land safely.
Does wing loading change stall speed?
Yes — higher wing loading raises the stall speed, meaning the plane must fly and land faster. That is why heavy warbirds come in hot while light floaters can almost hover into the wind.
Should I use projected or true wing area?
Hobbyists usually use the flat projected area (span × average chord) for a consistent comparison. It ignores airfoil thickness and dihedral, but every model measured the same way stays comparable.
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This calculator is for educational purposes. Double-check important results before acting on them.