GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 26, 2026
Weight and Balance
Before every departure, two questions must be answered with precision: is the aircraft within its permitted maximum weight, and is the centre of gravity in the correct position?
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Source: https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/weight_and_balance/
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Definition & Explanation
Before every departure, two questions must be answered with precision: is the aircraft within its permitted maximum weight, and is the centre of gravity in the correct position? Weight and balance is the mandatory calculation of total mass and centre-of-gravity location (CG) for a loaded aircraft. These values directly govern flight performance, stability, controllability, and fuel burn; if either falls outside the manufacturer's certified envelope, the aircraft cannot be released for flight. Ground handlers and load controllers produce a detailed weight-and-balance report—often called a loadsheet—before each flight, combining cargo positions, ULD weights, passenger data, and fuel figures. The principle applies beyond aviation: road transport uses axle load calculations and maritime shipping relies on stability calculations based on the same underlying logic.
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