Which factor does NOT affect the angle of drift during flight?

The angle of drift during flight, often referred to as the drift angle, is influenced by various factors that determine how the aircraft reacts to the wind. In this case, control surface deflection does not directly impact the angle of drift.

Wind direction is crucial because it determines how lateral forces affect the aircraft's trajectory. If the wind blows from a certain direction, it can cause the aircraft to drift off its intended heading, requiring the pilot to account for that drift by adjusting their course.

Aircraft speed affects the angle of drift as well. A faster aircraft can experience different lift and drag characteristics, influencing how it responds to crosswinds and altering the direction in which it is actually moving relative to the ground.

Bank angle directly impacts the aircraft's lateral movement and can change the aircraft's orientation with respect to the relative wind, thereby affecting how the aircraft compensates for wind forces during flight.

In contrast, control surface deflection, such as adjustments made to the ailerons or rudder, primarily affects maneuverability and stability, rather than the angle of drift itself. While adjustments to these surfaces can help the pilot stay on course or prepare for turns, they do not determine the initial drift angle caused by external environmental conditions like wind. Thus, control surface