Thoroughly understand how to compute an accurate weight and balance for the particular aircraft to be flown. Understand how weight and balance will affect aircraft handling and performance. Understand all the terms relating to weight and balance. Commit to setting personal limitations to always fly within weight and balance limitations.

Display a board with a fulcrum. Add objects to both sides and explain how objects of different weight can be balanced. Use this throughout the lesson to define arm, moment, etc.

The pilot must be aware of weight and balance conditions because it will change flight characteristics of the aircraft. The pilot can also make change to the configuration most advantageous to the situation.

Describe and define weight and balance.
Determine significant effects it will have on performance and controllability of the aircraft.
Define all the terms relating to weight and balance.
Perform an actual realistic calculation.
Identify unsafe weight scenarios and what could be done to remedy the situation.


Log
Ground Training:





• • 61.105(b)(9) Weight and balance computations;





Development:

What is weight and
balance?





• • Stable verses Unstable




• • Why is it important to compute a weight and balance for every
    flight?










1. 1. Affects handling characteristics of the aircraft




1. 1. Affects performance




1. 1. May affect the structural integrity




1. 1. May exceed manufacturer’s limitations




1. 1. Could create hazardous outcomes





Definitions: PHAK 9-5


• • 

    
  • Arm




• • Basic empty weight




• • Center of gravity (CG)




• • CG limits




• • CG range




• • Datum (reference datum)




• • Delta ∆




• • Floor load limit




• • Fuel load




• • Licensed empty weight




• • Standard empty weight




• • Moment




• • Moment index




• • Payload





• • Standard weights (these weights should not be used if actual weights
    are available.










1. 1. Gasoline
      6.b/US gal




1. 1. Jet A, Jet A-1
      6.8 lb/US gal




1. 1. Jet B
      6.5 lb/US gal




1. 1. Oil
      7.5 lb/US gal




1. 1. Water
      8.35 lb/US gal





How do I compute weight and balance?
FAA Weight and Balance Handbook






1. 1. AFM/POH chapter 6 is always weight and balance










• • Do a full weight and balance calculation with the aircraft to be
    flown




• • Explain the chart










1. 1. What if you were overweight in your calculation?










• • Take less luggage




• • Less fuel




• • Move bags around?










1. 1. Recalculate weight and balance after moving/removing fuel/items.





NEVER OPERATE OUTSIDE THE ENVELOPE FOR ANY REASON


Conclusion and Evaluation:


Knowing the weight of your aircraft is important and should alter
the way you fly. Performing the weight and balance calculation for every flight
is critical to operating safely within the envelope. Decide now to never
operate outside the recommendations of the manufacturer.