How can you determine if a particular load configuration is acceptable?

• A. Verify that total weight ≤ MTOW and CG lies between forward and aft CG limits for all planned configurations, including fuel burn.
• B. Ensure CG equals midpoint between limits regardless of weight.
• C. Ensure total weight is above MTOW to confirm margin.
• D. Check only the forward limit.

Answer: (A)

The main concept is to ensure every load configuration stays inside the aircraft’s approved weight and balance envelope. To determine acceptability, you must verify two things for all planned configurations (including fuel burn): the total weight must not exceed the Maximum Takeoff Weight, and the center of gravity must lie between the published forward and aft CG limits. This matters across the flight as fuel is burned and loads change, because the weight and CG can shift during flight.

This approach is the best because it directly enforces the two fundamental limits that keep the airplane safe and controllable: not exceeding the weight the structure and systems are designed for, and staying within the CG range that maintains proper stability and control throughout the flight.

Why the other ideas don’t fit: aiming for the CG to be exactly at the midpoint isn’t a requirement and can place you outside the actual allowed envelope. Exceeding MTOW is illegal and unsafe, not a margin. Checking only one CG limit ignores the other boundary and the changes that occur with different weights, so the configuration could still be out of balance.