Why does a heavier sUAS need more room to change direction or stop a descent?

• A.Its radio link responds more slowly at higher weights
• B.Its GPS position accuracy decreases with weight
• C.Its greater inertia resists changes in motion

Why

Inertia grows with mass, so a heavier aircraft resists acceleration in any direction, including braking and descent arrest. Pilots should anticipate wider, gentler maneuvers when flying heavy.

Source: FAA-G-8082-22 Ch. 4 · ACS knowledge area: sUAS Loading and Performance · From the Loading, Performance & Airport Operations practice bank (PER-015).

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More Weight and stopping distance in maneuvering questions

• What happens to a multirotor sUAS as its total takeoff weight increases?
• Adding a heavier payload to an sUAS will most directly cause which effect?
• Why must the center of gravity (CG) remain within the limits set by the manufacturer?
• Before takeoff, how should a payload or attached equipment be secured?
• Under Part 107, what is the maximum allowable takeoff weight for an sUAS, including everything attached?