Section 5: Weight and Balance Flashcards
What is the primary responsibility of the Pilot in Command (PIC)?
To ensure that the aircraft is loaded in compliance with weight and balance limitations for takeoff, enroute, and landing.
What does MATW stand for?
Maximum Allowable Takeoff Weight
What are the considerations included in the MATW?
- Aircraft structural limitations
- Airport density altitude
- Runway length
- Obstacle clearance
- Compliance with FAR 135.181(a)(2)
How does airport density altitude affect MATW?
It impacts required runway length and climb after takeoff
What does FAR 135.181(a)(2) require for ME aircraft?
Ability to climb at least 50 feet/minute with the critical engine inoperative
At what altitude must ME aircraft operate to comply with FAR 135.181(a)(2)?
At MEA’s or 5,000 feet MSL, whichever is higher
Fill in the blank: MATW includes consideration of aircraft _______.
[structural limitations]
What is the policy regarding the use of average passenger weights?
The company is not authorized to use average passenger weights; actual weights must be used.
This is reflected in the company’s OPSPECS.
Who is responsible for ensuring the aircraft is loaded properly?
The Pilot in Command (PIC) is responsible for ensuring the aircraft is loaded properly.
This responsibility holds regardless of who actually loads the aircraft.
What should be monitored if fuel supply is to be limited for the flight?
Monitor the fueling to ensure that only the proper amount of fuel is pumped.
Alternatively, use an approved means of verifying the actual quantity of fuel.
What is one approved method to verify the actual quantity of fuel in the tanks?
A calibrated and DOO/CP approved measuring stick.
This method is an alternative to monitoring the fueling directly.
How should the weight of passengers and baggage be determined?
Use a scale provided by the company.
Estimation may be used only under certain conditions.
Under what circumstances can you estimate passenger weights?
When fuel and light passenger loads make it clear that a weight error could not affect the aircraft’s safety.
Good judgment is required to determine when estimation is applicable.
When can you estimate the weight of carry-on items?
Only if the passenger/cargo load is light.
If there is any doubt, use the scale to establish actual weight.
What should you do if the cargo shipper provides actual weights?
You may use those weights in weight and balance computations.
Caution is advised, and suspicious items should be weighed.
What is a critical consideration regarding mislabeled cargo weights?
Mislabeled cargo weights can significantly impact the safety of flight.
People dealing with cargo may lack knowledge about this critical aspect.
What should be done if no weights are provided by the cargo shipper?
Use the scale provided by the company to establish the actual weight of individual items.
This ensures accuracy in weight and balance computations.
Why is it important to consider passenger distribution according to weight in the cabin?
To ensure proper balance and safety of the aircraft.
The PIC may need to tactfully request that a heavy passenger move forward or aft.
What is the purpose of the load manifest?
To show that the aircraft was loaded properly
The load manifest is a key document reviewed by the FAA during ramp checks.
What should be done if significant corrections are needed on a completed load manifest?
Fill out a new form
This prevents the appearance of possible malfeasance.
According to FAR 135.63(c), how many copies of the load manifest are required for all ME flights?
Two copies
The regulation does not specify what to do with the second copy.
What is the company procedure for the load manifest if departing from the main base?
Leave one copy at the main base and carry the second copy on the flight
This ensures proper documentation is available at both locations.
What should be done with the load manifest at other departure points?
Leave a copy with the FBO, e-mail, or text a copy back to the home base
This allows for proper tracking and documentation of the load manifest.
How long must the DOO/CP file and maintain copies of the load manifest?
At least 30 days
This is important for compliance and record-keeping.
True or False: Once a load manifest is filled out, additional cargo can be added or removed without permission.
False
Any changes require express notification and permission.
