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AI.II.D.K5FAA-S-ACS-25 · Nov 2023Knowledge

Load factors in airplane design.

ACS element text (the applicant demonstrates understanding of)

Load factors in airplane design.

Bottom line

The highest load factors expected in normal operation are called limit load factors, and the aircraft must be designed to withstand them without structural damage. The CFR requires the structure to support one and one-half times the limit load factors without failure, though parts may bend or twist and some structural damage may occur. This 1.5 factor is called the factor of safety, and pilots should not willfully abuse it; it protects against unexpected conditions.

Key numbers

Key numbers for Load factors in airplane design.
NumberWhat it means
3 GsLoad factor = 3
16°–20° depending on airplane designCritical AOA

FAA references

  1. PHAK ch. 5 (p. 5-33) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
  2. AFH ch. 1 (p. 1-13) — FAA-H-8083-3C
  3. AFH ch. 5, Accelerated Stalls (p. 5-19) — FAA-H-8083-3C
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