The definition
Wing loading = aircraft mass ÷ wing area. In g/dm²: a 2500 g plane on 40 dm² carries 62.5 g/dm² (≈ 20.5 oz/ft²).
What it tells you
Higher loading means faster stall and cruise speeds and less forgiving handling. Trainers sit in low bands, scale and jet models much higher. Compare like with like — a glider and a warbird live in different ranges.
Units matter
Manufacturers quote g/dm², oz/ft² or kg/m². Convert before comparing (oz/ft² = g/dm² × 0.3277; kg/m² = g/dm² ÷ 100).
Where it is used
The Wing Loading Calculator computes all three units; combine it with the CG Calculator for a setup check.