Definition

In aviation, Parasite (Parasitic) Drag (D_P) is defined as all drag that is not associated with the production of lift.

Description

Parasite drag is caused by moving a solid object through a fluid medium. In aerodynamics, the fluid medium concerned is the atmosphere. The principal components of parasite drag are Form Drag, Friction Drag and Interference Drag.

Parasite drag is caused by items that protrude into the airstream such as pitot tubes, antennas, external fuel tanks, and temperature probes.