Weight and Balance

Question 1

Empty Weight

Answer 1

Weight of airframe, engines, permanently installed equipment and unused fuel.

Question 2

Gross Weight

Answer 2

Max allowable weight of both airplane and its contents

Question 3

Useful Load

Answer 3

Weight of pilot, copilot, passengers

Question 4

Arm

Answer 4

Horizontal distance in inches from reference datum line to the center of gravity of object

Question 5

Moment

Answer 5

Product of weight times arm.

Question 6

Center of Gravity

Answer 6

Point about which an aircraft would balance if possible to suspend at that point

Question 7

Datum

Answer 7

Imaginary vertical plane or line from which all measurements of the arm are taken

Question 8

Performance Effects of Overloaded Aircraft

Answer 8

higher takeoff speed
longer takeoff run
reduced rate and angle of climb
lower max altitude
shorter range
reduced cruising speed
reduced maneuverability
higher stalling speed
higher landing speed
longer landing roll
excessive weight on nosewheel

Question 9

Effect of forward center of gravity on flight characteristics

Answer 9

Higher stall speed (due to increased wing loading)
slower cruise speed ( due to increased drag)
More stable - increases longitudinal stability
Greater back elevator pressure required - longer takeoff roll, higher approach speeds and problems with flare

Question 10

Effect of rearward center of gravity on flight characteristics

Answer 10

Lower stall speed- less wing loading
Higher cruise speed - reduced drag, smaller AoA req’d to maintain alt
Less stable - stall and spin recovery more difficult, center of gravity is closer to center of pressure causing longitudinal stability

Question 11

Standard Weight Assumed for Crew, Passengers and Gasoline, Oil, water

Answer 11

190 lbs /person
gas 6lbs / gal
oil 7.5 lbs/gal
water 8.35 lbs/gal