Load Factor
Load Factor
Load Factor
where:
n = Load factor
L = Lift
W = Weight
Since the load factor is the ratio of two forces, it is
dimensionless.
However, its units are traditionally referred to as g,
because of the relation between load factor and apparent
acceleration of gravity felt on board the aircraft.
A load factor of one, or 1 g, represents conditions in
straight and level flight, where the lift is equal to the
weight. Load factors greater or less than one (or even
negative) are the result of maneuvers or wind gusts
Design standards
Excessive load factors must be avoided because of the
possibility of exceeding the structural strength of the
aircraft.
Aviation authorities specify the load factor limits within
which different classes of aircraft are required to operate
without damage. For example, the US Federal Aviation
Regulations prescribe the following limits (for the most
restrictive case):
• For commercial transport airplanes, from -1 to +2.5
(or up to +3.8 depending on design takeoff weight) [9]
• For light airplanes, from -1.5 to +3.8 [10]
• For aerobatic airplanes, from -3 to +6 [10]
• For helicopters, from -1 to +3.5 [11][12]
However, many aircraft types, in particular aerobatic
airplanes, are designed so that they can tolerate load
factors much higher than the minimum required. For
example, the Sukhoi Su-26 family have load factors limits
of -10 to +12.[13]
The maximum load factors, both positive and negative,
applicable to an aircraft are usually specified in the pilot's
operating handbook.