PHAK · Chapter 5: Aerodynamics of Flight
FAA · Retrieved 2026-09-05
Educational reference; original Owl summariesFLIGHT DYNAMICS
Load factor & bank angle
FLIGHT SCIENCE / CONCEPT REFERENCE
SCIENCEConditions & principles
The ratio of aerodynamic lift to aircraft weight in the usual flight-dynamics definition.
REFERENCE COVERAGE3 / 3 editorial sections
PROVENANCE1 linked source
LAST RETRIEVED2026-09-05
Editorial section coverage describes the article structure, not scientific validation or completeness.
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Source editions
PHAK · Chapter 5: Aerodynamics of Flight ↗Edition / snapshot: FAA-H-8083-25C, 2023Retrieved: 2026-09-05
Retrieval dates record when Owl obtained the data; they are not publication dates or proof that a specification is current. Where the edition contains only a snapshot date, the original publication date is not recorded.
01
Mechanism
In a coordinated level turn, tilted lift needs a larger magnitude so its vertical component still balances weight.
02
Aircraft response
Higher load factor raises the lift requirement and stall speed, and increases structural loading. Bank angle does not imply the same load factor in every maneuver.
03
Context & interpretation
The equations apply to an ideal coordinated, constant-altitude turn, with the same weight and configuration for the stall-speed comparison.
Physical relationship
n = 1 / cos φ; VS,n = VS,1 √nn: load factor; φ: bank angle; VS,n: stall speed at load factor n.
Sources & context
Educational explanation of physical mechanisms. Aircraft-specific procedures, limitations and current weather information are separate references.