What contributes to achieving maximum range in an aircraft?

Achieving maximum range in an aircraft primarily involves flying with minimum drag. This is because drag acts against the forward motion of the aircraft, requiring more fuel to maintain speed. By minimizing drag, an aircraft can maintain its speed while using less power and fuel, thus extending the distance it can travel on a given amount of fuel. Techniques to reduce drag include optimizing the flight profile, utilizing clean aerodynamic designs, and operating at specific speeds where drag is minimized.

Flying at maximum altitude can enhance efficiency due to lower air density, which reduces induced drag; however, it must be balanced with the aircraft's performance capabilities and specific aerodynamics. Flying with full throttle typically increases fuel consumption due to higher thrust requirements, which can significantly reduce range. While maintaining minimum weight can also enhance range by reducing the amount of fuel needed, it does not specifically address the question of drag reduction, which is the primary factor influencing range.