Weight and Balance

Weight and Balance

If not Handled: Extreme Cases

Less extreme casesHigher take off speed,Longer take off run,Reduced rate and angle of climb,Lower maximum altitude,Shorter range,Reduced cruising speed,Reduced maneuverability,Higher stalling speed,Higher approach and landing speed,Longer landing roll,Excessive weight on the nose wheel or tail wheelLoading is not limited to weight only. Attention must be paid to the location of the center of gravity.

Back to BasicsMoments

Moment = F x dF d

Center of gravity location affects flightLimits certified by manufacturerControl: if CG is too far backwardStability: if CG is too far forward

Safety

CG too far FWD: Heavy Nose

More stability less control. Hard to pitch up during takeoff and landing7

CG too far RWD: Heavy Tail

More controllable (lighter control input necessary), but less stable. Easy to stall8Manufacturers put together easy ways to help load correctly

CG Moment Envelope