In a steady climb, which statement about forces is correct?

• A. Lift is less than weight and thrust is greater than drag
• B. Lift equals weight and thrust equals drag
• C. Lift is greater than weight and thrust greater than drag
• D. Lift is less than weight and thrust is less than drag

Answer: (A)

In a steady climb the aircraft moves along an upward-sloping flight path, so the forces must balance in a way that supports weight while still pushing the aircraft forward to overcome drag. Lift provides the vertical support against gravity, and thrust provides the forward push to overcome drag. Because the flight path is inclined, a portion of lift and thrust must counteract the weight and drag components along the climb. To satisfy the vertical balance and maintain forward motion, lift must be greater than weight and thrust must be greater than drag. This is why, in a steady climb, the forces are such that lift exceeds weight and thrust exceeds drag.