What does the term 'load shed' refer to in aviation?

The term 'load shed' in aviation specifically refers to the practice of disconnecting non-essential electrical loads from an aircraft's power system. This action is typically taken to alleviate electrical stress on the aircraft's power generation and distribution systems, particularly during situations where power supply is limited, such as an emergency or system malfunction. By shedding non-essential loads, the aircraft can prioritize vital systems that are critical for flight safety and operation.

In contrast, the other options involve different aspects of aircraft management. Reducing weight from the aircraft is important for performance but is not specifically termed 'load shed.' Shutting down the Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) is a separate operational procedure that may be related to load management but does not encompass the broader concept of maintaining electrical system integrity. Lastly, the emergency descent procedure refers to a different emergency response aimed at quickly reducing altitude, unrelated to the management of electrical loads.