What is a key characteristic of low aspect ratio wings?

Low aspect ratio wings, which are generally shorter and wider compared to high aspect ratio wings, significantly enhance maneuverability. This characteristic arises because the design allows for greater roll rates and can enable tighter turns, making them suitable for aircraft that require high agility, like military fighter jets.

However, this increased maneuverability comes at the cost of fuel efficiency; low aspect ratio wings typically produce more induced drag because of their broader surface area, which can lead to higher fuel consumption during flight. Therefore, while they excel in providing agile performance, they are not as efficient for long-distance travel as their high aspect ratio counterparts, which are designed to optimize lift-to-drag ratios.