does ram air affect economy?

IMO it's not the colder air, but the greater potential energy of the same volume of air, that makes the difference. The economy doesnt come from not needing to maintain the proper AF ratio, but the less throttle needed to maintain the same power output.

dodge - As far as aircraft vs earthbound, there are a few similarities, but due to fuel chemistry and altitude requirements I don't think knowing a lot about tuning an aircraft will really apply.