Why are weight and balance calculations significant?

Weight and balance calculations are crucial in aviation because they ensure that an aircraft is loaded within its specified limits for safe flight. Each aircraft has a maximum allowable weight and specific center of gravity (CG) range that must be adhered to for optimal performance and safety.

When an aircraft is loaded correctly, it will handle as expected, maintain control effectively, and have predictable performance characteristics. If the weight exceeds the limits or if the balance is off—meaning the CG is outside the safe range—the aircraft may experience issues such as reduced climb performance, increased stall speed, or difficulty controlling the aircraft during flight maneuvers. This can lead to dangerous situations, such as loss of control or inability to recover from stalls.

Therefore, conducting weight and balance calculations is not just a regulatory requirement; it is a fundamental safety practice that helps ensure the safety of the flight, the pilot, and passengers on board.