In a level flight with a 60° bank, the total load on the airframe for a gross weight of 2,000 pounds is how many pounds?

In a level flight with a 60° bank, the total load on the airframe for a gross weight of 2,000 pounds is how many pounds?

• A. 3,000 pounds
• B. 4,000 pounds
• C. 2,000 pounds
• D. 1,000 pounds

Answer: (B)

In a level, coordinated turn, the lift must not only support the weight but also provide the horizontal force to turn. The vertical component of lift must balance weight: L cos(phi) = W, so L = W / cos(phi). With a 60° bank, cos(60°) = 0.5, so lift needed is L = W / 0.5 = 2W. For a gross weight of 2,000 pounds, the required lift (total load on the airframe) is 4,000 pounds. This corresponds to a load factor of 2 g (the airframe carries twice the weight).

In a level, coordinated turn, the lift must not only support the weight but also provide the horizontal force to turn. The vertical component of lift must balance weight: L cos(phi) = W, so L = W / cos(phi). With a 60° bank, cos(60°) = 0.5, so lift needed is L = W / 0.5 = 2W. For a gross weight of 2,000 pounds, the required lift (total load on the airframe) is 4,000 pounds. This corresponds to a load factor of 2 g (the airframe carries twice the weight).