The primary factor that affects the load factor during maneuvers is:

The primary factor that affects the load factor during maneuvers is the bank angle. When an aircraft is in a turn, the load factor increases as the bank angle increases. This occurs because a greater bank angle requires more lift to counteract not only the weight of the aircraft but also to maintain a stable turn. The load factor can be thought of as the ratio of the lift generated by the wings to the weight of the aircraft. For instance, in a level turn, as the bank angle increases beyond a certain point, the aircraft's wings must produce more lift, which results in increased loading on the structure of the aircraft.

In practical terms, if a pilot banks the aircraft in a turn, they must anticipate the need for increased lift to maintain altitude. For example, a level turn at 30 degrees of bank typically creates a load factor of about 1.15, meaning the aircraft experiences 15% more force due to the turn compared to straight and level flight. Thus, understanding the relationship between bank angle and load factor is crucial for pilot safety and flight management. This knowledge helps pilots avoid situations that could lead to overstressing the aircraft during maneuvers.