Definition
A reading of zero on the loadmeter or ammeter, showing that the generator or alternator is not delivering any electrical current to the aircraft's electrical system. This typically signals a generator or alternator failure, with the battery now supplying all electrical power.
Plain English
The gauge that shows how much electricity the generator is producing reads zero — meaning it has stopped producing power, and the battery is now running everything on its own.
Context Anchor
Seen during generator or alternator failure checks, especially when comparing warning lights with the electrical load gauge.
Derivation
“Load” originally means a burden carried. In an electrical system, the “load” is the demand placed on a power source. A “zero load indication” therefore means the power source is carrying none of that demand.
Why Pilots Care
Signals generator or alternator failure, requiring immediate load shedding to protect battery power for essential avionics and instruments.
Intuition Check
Do not read “zero load” as “nothing in the airplane is using electricity.” It means this generator or alternator is not carrying the electrical demand.
Example Sentence 1
After the warning light came on, the pilot scanned the loadmeter and confirmed a zero load indication, then began the generator failure checklist.
Example Sentence 2
After the generator failed, the ammeter remained at a zero load indication until the battery was depleted.