Aircraft Weight and Balance

Aircraft weight and balance are essential considerations for the safe and effective operation of any aircraft. The aircraft manufacturer establishes the basic weight and center of gravity (C of G) of each aircraft. However, these values can change during the aircraft’s service life as a result of modifications, repainting, replacement of major components, or structural repairs.

Compliance with the approved weight and balance limitations is critical to flight safety. Operating an aircraft above its maximum weight limitation can compromise structural integrity and adversely affect aircraft performance. Similarly, operating with the center of gravity (CG) outside the approved limits can result in reduced stability and control difficulties.

For pilots, understanding weight control, balance, and center of gravity is essential for determining whether an aircraft can be safely operated for a particular flight. Changes in passengers, baggage, fuel, equipment, or other loads can affect the aircraft’s loaded weight and CG, making accurate weight and balance calculations an important part of flight planning.

The following topics explain the fundamentals of aircraft weight and balance, including weight control, balance and stability, center of gravity, and methods for determining the loaded weight and CG of an aircraft.