Drone Pilot Practice Exam

How does the load factor of a UAS wing or rotor change during maneuvers other than straight and level flight?

1. The load factor decreases

2. The load factor remains unchanged

3. The load factor can increase

4. The load factor is irrelevant

The correct answer is: The load factor can increase

The load factor of a UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System) wing or rotor is a critical concept that refers to the ratio of the lift generated by the aircraft to the weight of the aircraft. During maneuvers other than straight and level flight, such as turns, climbs, or descents, the load factor can increase. When an aircraft is maneuvering, the aerodynamic forces acting on it change. For instance, in a turn, the aircraft must generate additional lift to counteract the increased centrifugal force caused by the change in direction. This results in a higher load factor because the lift must not only support the weight of the aircraft but also provide the necessary force to maintain the turn. The increased load factor indicates that the wings or rotors are experiencing more weight than just the static mass of the aircraft, potentially leading to higher stress on these structures. In climbs, a similar principle applies; the aircraft must produce greater lift to counteract gravitational forces while also accelerating upwards. Thus, the load factor can indeed increase significantly during various types of maneuvers, making it a crucial consideration for UAS pilots to avoid exceeding the limits of their aircraft's structural integrity.