Drone Pilot Practice Exam

What effect does turning in flight have on load factor?

1. Load factor decreases

2. Load factor remains constant

3. Load factor increases

4. Load factor is unaffected by turns

The correct answer is: Load factor increases

Turning in flight generally increases the load factor experienced by the drone. Load factor is defined as the ratio of the lift force acting on the drone to the weight of the drone. When a drone executes a turn, it must generate additional lift to counteract not only its weight but also the centrifugal force that arises due to the change in direction. This occurs because the drone's motion during a turn results in a need for increased lift to maintain a stable altitude. When the drone banks into a turn, the lifting force is tilted from being directly upward to a direction that also has a horizontal component. This requires the drone to increase its angle of attack, leading to an increase in lift generated, which ultimately translates into a higher load factor. This situation indicates that the drone is experiencing forces greater than just its weight alone, making it crucial for drone pilots to be aware of the load factor during maneuvers to avoid potentially exceeding the structural limits of their aircraft. Understanding how load factor is affected by flight dynamics is vital for safe piloting and proper management of the drone's performance during turns.