In flight mechanics, the load factor refers to the ratio of the lift force acting on an aircraft to its weight. It is a measure of the forces experienced by the aircraft’s structure and occupants during flight. The load factor is denoted by the letter “n” and is expressed as a dimensionless value.
Load factor (n)=lift/weight
- “n” is the load factor (dimensionless).
- “Lift” is the aerodynamic force generated by the wings and other lifting surfaces of the aircraft as it moves through the air.
- “Weight” is the gravitational force acting on the aircraft due to its mass.