Aircraft Weight & Balance Flashcards

What is the 'arm' in weight and balance terminology?

Answer: The horizontal distance from the datum to the point where weight acts

The arm is the horizontal distance measured in inches from the datum to the point where a weight is applied or acts.

After making a major repair or alteration that affects weight and balance, what must be updated?

Answer: Weight and Balance Report and equipment list

Any major repair or alteration affecting weight and balance requires an updated Weight and Balance Report and equipment list to reflect current empty weight and CG.

How is CG location calculated?

Answer: CG = Total Moment ÷ Total Weight

CG location is found by dividing the total moment (sum of all moments) by the total weight, giving the CG in inches from the datum.

What does a forward CG condition typically result in?

Answer: Increased longitudinal stability but reduced elevator effectiveness at low speeds

A forward CG increases longitudinal stability but may reduce elevator effectiveness, requiring higher approach speeds and greater back pressure.

What is 'zero fuel weight'?

Answer: The maximum allowable weight of the aircraft without usable fuel

Zero fuel weight is the maximum certificated weight of the aircraft and its contents, excluding usable fuel, used to limit structural bending loads on the wing.

Which method of weighing an aircraft involves placing scales under each landing gear?

Answer: Platform scale method

The platform scale method places calibrated scales under each wheel or landing gear strut to directly measure the load on each gear point.

When must an aircraft be leveled during an official weighing procedure?

Answer: Always — the aircraft must be in its level flight attitude to obtain accurate weight and balance data

The aircraft must be placed in its level flight attitude during weighing to ensure that weight is correctly distributed to each scale and that measurements are accurate.