Aircraft Weight and Balance Handbook

This handbook begins with the basic principle of aircraft
weight and balance control, emphasizing its importance
and including examples of documentation furnished by the
aircraft manufacturer and by the FAA to ensure the aircraft
weight and balance records contain the proper data.
Procedures for the preparation and the actual weighing
of an aircraft are described, as are the methods of
determining the location of the empty-weight center of
gravity (EWCG) relative to both the datum and the mean
aerodynamic chord (MAC).

Loading computations for general aviation aircraft are
discussed, using both loading graphs and tables of weight
and moment indexes.

Information is included that allows an A&P mechanic or
repairman to determine the weight and center of gravity (CG)
changes caused by repairs and alterations. This includes
instructions for conducting adverse-loaded CG checks, also
explaining the way to determine the amount and location of
ballast needed to bring the CG within allowable limits.
The unique requirements for helicopter weight and balance
control are discussed, including the determination of
lateral CG and the way both lateral and longitudinal CG
change as fuel is consumed.

A chapter is included giving the methods and examples
of solving weight and balance problems, using handheld
electronic calculators, E6-B flight computers, and a
dedicated electronic flight computer.