To achieve maximum range over ground with headwind, what should be done with airspeed?

To achieve maximum range over ground in the presence of a headwind, the optimal strategy is to increase the airspeed compared to the speed for maximum range cruise with no wind. This is because a headwind increases the amount of energy required to maintain ground speed; by increasing airspeed, the aircraft can better counteract the effects of the headwind.

When an aircraft flies faster than the maximum range speed, it will generate more lift and thus maintain better overall performance against the wind's drag. It effectively allows the aircraft to reach a point where its groundspeed is maximized even if the headwind is pushing against it. This adjustment in airspeed helps in reducing the overall time spent flying against the headwind, improving fuel efficiency and extending the range.

Choosing a higher airspeed embraces the increase in energy required to overcome the headwind, allowing the aircraft to benefit from its aerodynamic design more effectively, which is essential for optimal performance during varying wind conditions.