What occurs when the ultimate load factor is exceeded?

When the ultimate load factor is exceeded, structural failure occurs as this represents the maximum load that an aircraft structure can withstand without experiencing critical damage. The ultimate load is defined as a safety margin over the limit load, which is the maximum expected load under normal flying conditions. When this limit is surpassed, the materials and structural components of the aircraft may not be able to handle the increased stress and can lead to catastrophic failures, such as component breakage or complete loss of structural integrity.

Understanding the significance of the ultimate load factor is crucial for pilots and engineers, as it underscores the importance of adhering to specified performance limits to ensure safety. Structures are designed to endure various stress levels, but exceeding this threshold jeopardizes the overall integrity of the aircraft, leading to potentially life-threatening situations.