What is the primary benefit of using flaps during landing?

Using flaps during landing primarily allows for slower airspeed and a steeper descent because they change the airflow over the wings, increasing lift at lower speeds. When flaps are extended, they create additional lift which enables the aircraft to maintain controlled flight at slower airspeeds, reducing the required landing speed. This is especially beneficial during the landing approach as it allows for a steeper descent path without risking a stall.

The ability to descend steeper is advantageous as it allows the pilot to navigate around obstacles and aligns with a landing pattern that may require a quicker descent due to traffic or terrain. Moreover, the increased control offered by using flaps helps maintain a stable approach, making it easier to manage the aircraft during the critical landing phase.

The other options do not present the primary benefits of flap usage during landing in the same context. For example, decreased weight of the aircraft is not related to flap deployment, and the idea of increased speed of descent contradicts the fundamental purpose of flaps, which is to lower airspeed while facilitating a safe landing approach.