FAA Private Pilot Airplane (PAR)Performance, Weight and BalanceMedium
A pilot is reviewing the weight and balance data for an aircraft before a flight. The aircraft's empty weight is 1,600 lbs, and its empty weight CG is 80.0 inches aft of the datum. The maximum gross weight is 2,400 lbs. If the pilot and passenger weigh a combined 350 lbs at an average arm of 40.0 inches, and 30 gallons of fuel are loaded at an arm of 90.0 inches, what is the total weight of the aircraft? (Avgas weighs 6 lbs/gallon)
- A2,130 lbs
- B1,950 lbs
- C2,080 lbs
- D2,200 lbs
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. 2,130 lbs
To find the total weight, sum the empty weight, pilot/passenger weight, and fuel weight. Empty weight = 1,600 lbs. Pilot and passenger = 350 lbs. Fuel weight = 30 gallons * 6 lbs/gallon = 180 lbs. Total weight = 1,600 + 350 + 180 = 2,130 lbs.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Incorrect. This calculation likely omits the fuel weight.
- C. Incorrect. This calculation likely misinterprets one of the weight components.
- D. Incorrect. This value is too high, indicating an overestimation of one of the weight components.
Total Aircraft Weight Calculation
The total aircraft weight is the sum of the empty weight and all items comprising the useful load (pilot, passengers, baggage, usable fuel). This value must not exceed the maximum gross weight limits for safe operation.
- Total Weight = Empty Weight + Useful Load
- Useful Load includes pilot, passengers, baggage, fuel
- Must be less than or equal to maximum gross weight
Memory trick: Empty Plus People Plus Fuel