What effect does increased weight have on airplane performance during takeoff?

When an airplane is heavier, it generally requires more lift to become airborne. During takeoff, the aircraft must reach a specific speed known as the takeoff speed, which depends on its weight. As weight increases due to added cargo, fuel, or passengers, the amount of lift needed also increases. This often results in a longer takeoff run, as the aircraft needs to accelerate to that required speed before it can generate sufficient lift to leave the ground.

A heavier aircraft struggles to achieve the necessary takeoff speed efficiently, thereby extending the distance required on the runway to take off. This principle is fundamental in aviation and is a critical consideration for pilots during flight planning and operations, as it affects runway length requirements and overall flight performance.