Who is responsible for ensuring payload limits and center of gravity are within limits prior to pushback?

• A. The flight crew in coordination with dispatch.
• B. Maintenance personnel.
• C. ATC.
• D. PIC (Pilot in Command).

Answer: (D)

The Pilot in Command has the final responsibility for flight safety, including making sure the aircraft is loaded within payload limits and the center of gravity is within the approved range before pushback. The PIC must verify that the published takeoff data matches the actual load and that balance and trim will allow safe control throughout the takeoff and climb. In practice, loading data is typically prepared by dispatch or ground loading personnel, who calculate weight, balance, and performance, but the PIC uses that information to make the go/no-go decision. If the load would exceed limits, the PIC can delay pushback, reconfigure loading, or offload cargo or passengers to bring the aircraft into compliance. Maintenance personnel ensure airworthiness, ATC doesn’t manage weight and balance, and the final responsibility rests with the PIC.