What characteristic of fuel affects aircraft performance indirectly through weight?

The characteristic of fuel that affects aircraft performance indirectly through weight is density. Density, which is defined as mass per unit volume, has a significant impact on the total weight of the fuel on board an aircraft. When a fuel has a higher density, more mass can be contained in a given volume, which means that an aircraft can carry more weight of fuel without increasing the overall volume of fuel tanks.

This aspect is crucial for aircraft performance because weight directly influences various operational parameters, such as takeoff distance, climb rate, fuel efficiency, and overall payload capacity. A heavier aircraft requires more lift and thrust to take off, which can limit performance and may necessitate longer runway lengths or higher engine power settings.

Conversely, lower-density fuel may allow for a lighter aircraft configuration but could require larger tank volumes to carry the same amount of energy, potentially affecting aerodynamics and balance. Thus, the density of the fuel is a key factor in the performance of an aircraft, as it contributes directly to the overall weight that must be managed.