Which feature is included as part of the empty weight in the computation for a certificated aircraft?

• A. Oil contained in the supply tank.
• B. Usable fuel.
• C. Passenger baggage.
• D. Landing gear tires.

Answer: (A)

Empty weight is the aircraft’s mass with all fixed equipment and fluids that stay with the airplane, before adding usable fuel or payload. Oil contained in the supply tank fits this because it’s a fixed operating fluid that remains for flight and is part of the aircraft’s fixed contents. Usable fuel isn’t included in empty weight since it’s fuel to be burned during flight. Passenger baggage is payload and added later to determine weight and balance. The other option (tires) relates to fixed equipment, but the main point being tested is that fixed operating fluids like oil are included in empty weight.