§3.171 Loads.

(a) Strength requirements are specified in terms of limit and ultimate loads. Limit loads are the maximum loads anticipated in service. Ultimate loads are equal to the limit loads multiplied by the factor of safety. Unless otherwise described, loads specified are limit loads. (b) Unless otherwise provided, the specified air, ground, and water loads shall be placed in equilibrium with inertia forces, considering all items of mass in the airplane. All such loads shall be distributed in a manner conservatively approximating or closely representing actual conditions. If deflections under load would change significantly the distribution of external or internal loads, such redistribution shall be taken into account. [(c) Simplified structural design criteria shall be acceptable if the Administrator finds that they result in design loads not less than those prescribed in §§ 3.181 through 3.265. ]