Register

Beware of the Weight Shift

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Pilots should perform at least two weight and balance calculations: one for takeoff and a second for the estimated landing weight after fuel burn.
  • While fuel burn reduces overall weight, it can significantly shift the aircraft's center of gravity (CG), potentially moving it outside safe limits.
  • A CG shift beyond limits, particularly aft, can compromise pitch control, making it vital to ensure the CG remains within approved parameters for the entire flight.
See a mistake? Contact us.

You already know that it is important to do a weight and balance calculation prior to any flight to make sure you don’t put too much weight in the airplane and that the center of gravity is within the published limits. But you may not realize that you should do at least two weight and balance calculations.

As you burn off fuel during your flight the weight clearly is reduced. A reduction in weight is only going to bring you further under the max gross weight and is not going to affect the safety of your flight.

Pia Bergqvist

Pia Bergqvist joined FLYING in December 2010. A passionate aviator, Pia started flying in 1999 and quickly obtained her single- and multi-engine commercial, instrument and instructor ratings. After a decade of working in general aviation, Pia has accumulated almost 3,000 hours of flight time in nearly 40 different types of aircraft.

Ready to Sell Your Aircraft?

List your airplane on AircraftForSale.com and reach qualified buyers.

List Your Aircraft
AircraftForSale Logo | FLYING Logo
Pilot in aircraft
Sign-up for newsletters & special offers!

Get the latest stories & special offers delivered directly to your inbox.

SUBSCRIBE