What happens to aircraft drag and fuel consumption with an increase in mass?

The correct answer highlights an important relationship between an aircraft's mass, drag, and fuel consumption. As the mass of an aircraft increases, its drag tends to increase as well. This increase in drag occurs because heavier aircraft require more lift to maintain altitude, which in turn forces them to fly at a higher angle of attack. A higher angle of attack typically increases the aerodynamic drag as the airflow over the aircraft becomes more disturbed, leading to a larger wake and more resistance.

As drag increases during flight, the engines must work harder to maintain the required speed, resulting in higher fuel consumption. Therefore, it is essential for pilots and operators to consider mass when planning flights, as an increase in mass not only affects performance and climb rates but also significantly impacts fuel efficiency due to the resulting increase in drag.

In contrast, other options do not accurately represent the physical dynamics at play with changes in aircraft mass. Understanding how these factors interrelate is crucial for effective flight planning and operational safety.