What happens to the total drag of an aircraft when operating at maximum L/D ratio?

When an aircraft operates at its maximum lift-to-drag (L/D) ratio, it is achieving the most efficient aerodynamic performance. At this point, the total drag is at its lowest. The maximum L/D ratio indicates the optimal balance between lift and drag, allowing the aircraft to generate the necessary lift for flight while incurring the least amount of drag. This efficient performance is essential for various phases of flight, especially during gliding or cruising, as it enables the aircraft to maintain altitude with minimal energy expenditure.

In this scenario, drag is directly affected by the angle of attack and speed. Operating at this optimal point means that the aircraft is avoiding excessive drag that can occur at higher angles of attack, where induced drag increases significantly. By achieving maximum efficiency, not only is drag minimized, but fuel consumption is also optimized, leading to extended flight range and endurance.