Aero Fact: Load Factor (g)
Bank angle directly increases load factor, impacting stall speed and structural limits.
By AircoreDynamics •
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1 min read
Definition: n = L/W; in level flight with bank angle φ, n = 1/cosφ increases with φ.
Physics insight: Structural limits appear on the V-n diagram; maneuvering speed is critical.
Example: At φ=60°, n≈2; stall speed rises to VS ≈ √2 × VS1.
n = 1/cosφ
Rules of thumb: Avoid abrupt pulls; know turbulence penetration and VA speeds.
Common pitfalls: Ignoring CG/configuration effects.
References: FAA; Roskam