FAA Aviation Mechanic General (AMG)Aircraft Drawings, Weight and BalanceHard
An aircraft has a maximum certificated gross weight of 2,750 lb and a basic empty weight of 1,650 lb after the latest equipment change. What is the aircraft's useful load?
- A4,400 lb
- B1,100 lb
- C1,650 lb
- D2,750 lb
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. 1,100 lb
Useful load is the difference between maximum gross weight and basic empty weight: 2,750 lb – 1,650 lb = 1,100 lb. This figure represents the maximum combined weight of fuel, oil, crew, passengers, and cargo the aircraft can carry.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This results from adding the two weights together, which is not the correct formula.
- C. This is the basic empty weight, not the useful load.
- D. This is the maximum gross weight, not the difference representing useful load.
Useful Load
The difference between an aircraft's maximum certificated gross weight and its basic empty weight, representing the weight available for crew, passengers, fuel, and cargo.
- Useful Load = Max Gross Weight − Basic Empty Weight
- Includes usable fuel, oil (if not in BEW), crew, passengers, cargo
- Found on the aircraft's weight and balance report
Memory trick: Useful load = what's left in your suitcase after the plane's own weight.