Which maneuver increases the load factor significantly?

Banking sharply significantly increases the load factor because it changes the distribution of forces acting on the aircraft. When an aircraft banks, the lift vector tilts with the wings, and the horizontal component of lift is directed towards the center of the turn. This requires an increase in the total lift generated to counteract the weight of the aircraft, thereby increasing the load factor.

For example, in a level turn, if the bank angle increases, the aircraft must generate more lift to maintain altitude, which directly correlates with an increase in load factor. In a 60-degree bank turn, the load factor can double, resulting in the pilot experiencing forces greater than that of normal gravity. This is critical for pilots to understand because exceeding the aircraft's structural limits can lead to loss of control or structural failure.

In contrast, pulling back on the yoke can increase the angle of attack and generate additional lift, but it does not inherently increase the load factor in the same dramatic way as banking sharply does. Descending rapidly might affect speed and altitude but does not directly influence the load factor in a manner comparable to a turn. Maintaining level flight at a constant altitude implies that the load factor remains constant, as the forces are balanced with no additional banking or maneuvers