Drone Pilot Practice Exam

During which flight maneuver does load factor on a UAS increase?

1. Stabilization

2. Turns

3. Descents

4. Ascents

The correct answer is: Turns

When a UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System) performs turns, the load factor increases due to the banking motion. In a turn, the aircraft must generate additional lift to counteract the effects of the turn's centrifugal force. This necessitates a higher angle of attack, which subsequently increases the lifting force and overall load factor experienced by the aircraft and its components. Load factor is defined as the ratio of the lift generated by the aircraft to the weight of the aircraft. In a straight-and-level flight, the load factor is essentially 1. However, during a turn, especially at higher bank angles, this ratio increases, leading to a greater perceived weight on the UAS. Understanding this concept is crucial for drone pilots because operating at higher load factors can affect the performance of the aircraft, particularly in terms of stability and control. Knowing how turns impact load factor helps pilots make informed decisions about flight maneuvers to avoid potential overstress or loss of control.