NetJets Latitude Limitations Practice Test

Weight distribution matters because the center of gravity is the aircraft’s balance point and must stay within published forward and aft limits for all phases of flight. When baggage is loaded unevenly, heavier items sit at different distances from the datum, shifting the CG forward or aft. If the CG drifts outside the allowed range, handling and stability change: you may lose enough elevator authority to rotate on takeoff or to flare for landing, and takeoff or landing performance (trim requirements, stall characteristics, and required speeds) can be adversely affected. The fix is to redistribute baggage so the CG stays within limits, or add ballast to bring it back to a safe position. Keep in mind that fuel burn also shifts the CG during flight, so balance should be checked and adjusted as fuel is consumed.

Loading baggage in a way that claims CG never changes or that only fuel matters isn’t accurate, since the position of all weight relative to the datum determines the CG and thus the aircraft’s performance.