AI.II.F.K3FAA-S-ACS-25 · Nov 2023Knowledge
Weight and balance terms, including: basic empty weight, maximum gross weight, arm, mom...
Weight and balance terms, including: basic empty weight, maximum gross weight, arm, moment, reference datum, center of gravity (CG) and CG limits, and useful load.
Bottom line
Center of gravity (CG)—the point about which an aircraft would balance if it were possible to suspend it at that point. CG limits—the specified forward and aft points within which the CG must be located during flight. The useful load is the maximum combination of usable fuel, passengers, baggage, and cargo that the airplane is capable of carrying.
Key numbers
| Number | What it means |
|---|---|
| 2,000 lbs (example: maximum takeoff weight 5,200 lbs minus basic empty weight 3,200 lbs) | Useful load |
| 1,200 lbs (example: zero fuel weight 4,400 lbs minus basic empty weight 3,200 lbs) | Payload |
FAA references
- PHAK ch. 10 (pp. 10-4–10-5) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
- AFH ch. 13 (pp. 13-12–13-14) — FAA-H-8083-3C
- WBH Unusable fuel — FAA-H-8083-1B
- RMH ch. 3 (p. 3-6) — FAA-H-8083-2A
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