Load Factor - Mohsen Hamedi

Definition

Load factor is defined as the ration of the lift force to the aircraft’s weight.

(1) $\begin{equation*}N_z = \frac{L}{W} = \frac{Lift~Force}{Aircraft's~Weight}.\end{equation*}$

When $N_z=1$ it means that the aircraft is in straight and level flight. By increasing the load factor, we increase the load that wings have to carry.

Load Factor Measurement

We measure the load factor by $g$ forces, which is simply the force of gravity multiply. For example $1g$ is equal to the weight of the aircraft, and $2g$ is equal to $2$ times the weight of the aircraft.

Load Factor Limitation

The $g$ limitations of each aircraft can be found from the flight manual of the aircraft. For example, for all Airbus types, the flight maneuvering load acceleration limits are established as follows:
Clean Configuration: $\quad -1g \leq N_z \leq 2.5g$ .
Slats Extended: $\quad 0g \leq N_z \leq 2g$ .