load factor

noun

: the percentage of available seats paid for and occupied in an aircraft

Examples of load factor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The vehicle’s electric drive system can be monitored remotely and includes battery status and motor load factor. Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 23 Feb. 2026 In November 2025, load factors reached a new record load factor of 83.7% according to Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General. Michael Goldstein, Forbes.com, 26 Jan. 2026 Avelo’s load factor, or seat occupancy, also increased from 2024, according to the airline. Kenneth R. Gosselin, Hartford Courant, 8 Jan. 2026 Airlines are simultaneously reporting Q3 and Q4 load factors that are consistently above 85%, near historic peaks. Josh Brown,sean Russo, CNBC, 8 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for load factor

Word History

First Known Use

1943, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of load factor was in 1943

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Cite this Entry

“Load factor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/load%20factor. Accessed 1 Mar. 2026.

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