Almost all weight and balance problems involve only simple math. This allows slide rules and hand-held electronic calculators to relieve much of the tedium involved with these problems. This section compares the methods of determining the center of gravity (CG) of an airplane while it is being weighed. First, it shows how to determine the CG using a simple electronic calculator, then solves the same problem using an E6-B flight computer. Finally, it shows how to solve it using a dedicated electronic flight computer.
Examples of typical weight and balance problems (solved with an electronic calculator) that pilots and airframe and powerplant (A&P) maintenance technicians encounter throughout their aviation endeavors are shown later in this section.