Definition
In flight dynamics, the aerodynamic force imposed on the aircraft's structure, primarily on the wings, as it supports the weight of the aircraft and resists the forces of flight. Load varies with bank angle, pitch changes, turbulence, and maneuvering, and is commonly expressed as a multiple of the aircraft's weight (load factor, in G's).
Plain English
The amount of force the aircraft's structure has to carry while flying. In level flight it carries its own weight; in turns or pull-ups it carries more. The steeper the maneuver, the heavier the load.
Context Anchor
Seen in straight-and-level flight and pitch-control discussions when explaining why the same airplane may need a different nose position or power setting at different weights.
Derivation
From Old English 'lad,' meaning a burden carried. In aviation, the 'burden' is the force the wings and airframe must hold up — not just the weight of the aircraft, but the extra force created by maneuvering.
Why Pilots Care
Excessive load can overstress the airframe or lead to an accelerated stall, while insufficient load causes altitude loss.
Intuition Check
Do not read load as only cargo or baggage. In this aviation use, load means the total force the airplane must support, whether it comes from weight, passengers, fuel, or maneuvering.
Example Sentence 1
In straight-and-level flight, the load on the wings equals the weight of the aircraft.
Example Sentence 2
The pilot reduces back pressure to unload the wings and lower the load factor during recovery.