FAA Aircraft Dispatcher (ADX)Flight Planning and PerformanceMedium
A dispatcher is evaluating the effect of loading an aircraft near its forward CG limit rather than at a mid-CG position. Which statement correctly describes the effect on the airplane?
- AForward CG loading decreases stall speed and increases cruise range
- BForward CG loading has no effect on stall speed but decreases stability
- CForward CG loading decreases the required elevator/trim deflection during cruise
- DForward CG loading increases stall speed and increases longitudinal stability, requiring more nose-up trim
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Forward CG loading increases stall speed and increases longitudinal stability, requiring more nose-up trim
A forward CG increases the download required on the tail for balance, raising stall speed slightly and increasing longitudinal stability, but it requires more nose-up trim (and thus more trim drag), which reduces range compared to an aft CG loading.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Forward CG actually increases stall speed and typically reduces range due to added trim drag.
- B. Forward CG does affect stall speed (increases it) and increases, not decreases, stability.
- C. Forward CG requires more elevator/trim deflection, not less.
Forward CG Effects
Loading an aircraft near its forward CG limit increases stability and stall speed while requiring more nose-up trim, slightly reducing cruise efficiency.
- Forward CG increases longitudinal stability
- Forward CG increases stall speed
- Forward CG requires more nose-up trim, increasing trim drag
Memory trick: Forward CG is like a nose-heavy see-saw: stable but stalls sooner and drags more.