Drone Pilot Practice Exam

During basic maneuvers, what primarily increases the load factor?

1. Acceleration

2. Banking

3. Speed changes

4. Weight distribution

The correct answer is: Banking

The load factor during basic maneuvers primarily increases due to banking. When a drone banks, it creates a change in direction, which increases the angle of the lift vector relative to the ground. This results in a greater load factor, as the lift must not only counteract the weight of the drone but also provide the necessary centripetal force to change direction. The steeper the bank angle, the higher the load factor becomes, resulting in increased stress on the aircraft and its components. Understanding the relationship between bank angle and load factor is essential for safe and effective drone operation during maneuvers. Acceleration, speed changes, and weight distribution can affect the performance and handling of a drone but do not directly increase the load factor in the same manner that banking does. Acceleration primarily influences speed, which can change lift but not in a way that directly alters the load factor as significantly as banking does. Speed changes might impact the flight dynamics but are not the primary contributor to load factor increase during turns. Weight distribution affects the balance and stability of the drone but does not fundamentally change the load factor as banking does in a maneuver situation.