What does "negative load factors" indicate about an aircraft?

Negative load factors refer to the aerodynamic forces acting on an aircraft when it experiences a situation such as a sudden loss of lift or a rapid descent. This typically occurs when the aircraft is subjected to forces that push against the direction of the wings, resulting in a condition where the load factor is below zero. It can manifest in scenarios like a steep climb followed by an immediate descent, where the aircraft may experience a brief moment of "weightlessness" or reduced load on the wings.

In this context, the phrase about altitude loss accurately describes how negative load factors influence the aircraft and its performance. During an altitude loss, the aircraft can experience negative G-forces, which can lead to a momentary feeling of reduced weight and possible disorientation for the pilot and passengers, emphasizing the connection of negative load factors with altitude loss.

The other options do not correctly relate to the notion of negative load factors. They address different dynamics of flight that aren't specifically linked to the condition of negative G-forces and their consequences on aircraft performance and stability.