FAA Part 107 Drone Practice Test

When operating an unmanned airplane, under what condition can the load factor on the wings increase?

1. When the CG is shifted forward

2. When maneuvers are made other than straight and level flight

3. When the gross weight is increased

4. When the aircraft is at cruising altitude

The correct answer is: When maneuvers are made other than straight and level flight

The load factor on the wings of an unmanned airplane increases when maneuvers are made other than straight and level flight due to the additional forces exerted on the aircraft during such maneuvers. In straight and level flight, the load factor remains at 1 G, which is equivalent to the weight of the aircraft. However, when the aircraft performs turns, climbs, or descents, it experiences changes in direction and altitude, which can create additional lift requirements. For example, during a turn, the aircraft must generate more lift to counteract the increased centrifugal force acting on it. This results in an increased load factor that can be several times the weight of the aircraft depending on the steepness of the turn and the bank angle. Similarly, during climbs or descents, the load factor fluctuates due to the variations in vertical and horizontal forces acting on the wings. Thus, performing maneuvers other than straight and level flight directly influences the load factor on the wings, making it a critical aspect of aircraft performance that pilots must understand to maintain safe operations.