Induced drag

Induced drag is a type of aerodynamic force that occurs when an airplane generates lift. As wings create lift by changing the airflow, they create swirling air currents called vortices at the tips, which consume energy. These vortices create additional drag, called induced drag, that opposes the airplane's motion. Essentially, it's a byproduct of producing lift, making the aircraft work harder to stay in the air. Reducing induced drag improves fuel efficiency and overall performance, which is why aircraft designers work on wing shapes and other methods to minimize it.