Abstract: A method and system for detecting a hard landing or other high load event of an aircraft are disclosed. A heuristic algorithm may be used to estimate loads experienced by the aircraft during landing. The heuristic algorithm may use flight parameters and/or measured sensor information to estimate the loads. The heuristic algorithm may be trained by means of analytical loads predictions and/or test measurements. The heuristic algorithm may be updated during operation. This invention may potentially reduce the number of unnecessary structural inspections, and may also limit the scope of any such required inspections.