Weight & Balance Calculations
Next to a good preflight plan and weather report is a thorough Weight & Balance calculation. Weight & balance is a matter of serious concern to all pilots as well as many other people involved in the flight.
The pilot has to personally assume the responsibility (and by law) because he has control over both the loading and fuel management, the two variable factors which can change both total Weight & Balance.
This information is available to the pilot in the form of aircraft records, operating handbooks and placards in baggage compartments and or fuel caps. The owner of the aircraft has the responsibility to make sure that up to date information is available to the pilot.
The Weight & Balance form we present below can be used for this purpose. It is very important to realize that any aircraft (yes, experimental aircraft too) which is out of balance or overweight is dangerous to fly. Not to mention deadly. So please be very, very serious about this.
Aircraft Weight & Balance form
This is the one we like to use. It is useful for two and four seat light aircraft. Be careful if weight is in kg and arm is in mm instead of lbs and inches.
| Item | Weight (lbs) | Arm (inch) | Moment (lb-in) |
| Basic Empty Weight | |||
| Pilot and Copilot | |||
| Second row passengers | |||
| Forward Baggage Area | |||
| Aft Baggage Area | |||
| Weight (lbs) | Arm (inch) | Moment (lb-in) | |
| Zero Fuel Weight | |||
| On board Fuel ___ Gallons | |||
| Fuel Start, Taxi and Runup | - | - | |
| Take-off Weight and Moment | |||
| C of G position | |||
| Weight (lbs) | Arm (inch) | Moment (lb-in) | |
| Fuel burn ___ Gallons | - | - | |
| Landing Weight |
To download a pdf version click here.
Important
Operating above the maximum weight limitation compromises the structural integrity of the airplane and adversely affects performance and safety.
Finally: remember to always secure the cargo just in case unexpected turbulence is more than comfortable.
