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4 Answers

Load Factor

Asked by: 6996 views Aerodynamics

I understand the concept of load factor. However,  I am not sure if I am clear on what is "positive load factor" and "negative load factor".

Can anyone explain in simple terms and provide flight examples of the meaning of positive load factor and negative load factor?

Thank you.

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4 Answers



  1. Brent on Apr 25, 2014

    I’m not an aeronautical engineer, so this may be oversimplifying the matter, but a positive load factor is one that pulls you into your seat, and a negative load factor is one that lifts you out of it.

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  2. Bob Watson on Apr 27, 2014

    For example:

    Positive load factor:
    – Level, coordinated turns: More bank, more load factor
    – Pulling up (bottom of an inside loop, level-off after descent, etc.)

    Negative load factor:
    – Inverted flight
    – Pushing over

    Turbulence: both

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  3. Dan Chitty on Apr 28, 2014

    Thank you Bob and Brent for the feedback.

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  4. Mike Urban on Apr 28, 2014

    The load factor is the actual weight wings are supporting. This weight = the gross weight of the aircraft when the load factor is 1 but it could be more or less if the load factor doesn’t equal 1 (direct relationship).

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