Load factor (aeronautics)

In aeronautics, the load factor is the ratio of the lift of an aircraft to its weight^{: § 5.22} and represents a global measure of the stress ("load") to which the structure of the aircraft is subjected:

${\displaystyle n={\frac {L}{W}},}$

where

${\displaystyle n}$ is the load factor,

${\displaystyle L}$ is the lift

${\displaystyle W}$ is the 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.