How is center of gravity determined for a Latitude flight, and what data must be verified before departure?

• A. CG is determined from standard published weights; verify only fuel load.
• B. CG is calculated from approved weight and balance data using actual loaded weights; verify item weights, fuel load, passenger count, baggage, and balance moment to ensure CG remains within limits.
• C. CG is calculated after departure using real-time data; verify weather.
• D. CG is fixed by design; no verification required.

Answer: (C)

Center of gravity is determined from approved weight and balance data using the actual loaded weights for the flight. Before departure you must verify every element that affects weight and moment—fuel load, passenger count, baggage, and any other items—so you can compute the balance moment and confirm the CG stays within the aircraft’s approved limits. This ensures the aircraft’s longitudinal stability and compliance with loading restrictions.

Relying on standard published weights without the actual loaded items would not reflect the real CG. Calculating CG after departure using real-time data isn’t practical or safe, and CG isn’t fixed by design or left unchecked—verification before flight is essential. Weather data is important for performance planning, but it does not determine CG.