How is the center of gravity (CG) determined if extra equipment is added to an aircraft?

When extra equipment is added to an aircraft, recalculating the center of gravity (CG) position using the added weight and its arm is essential for maintaining safe and efficient flight operations. The center of gravity is a crucial factor in aircraft stability, and any changes in weight distribution can significantly affect it.

To determine the new CG accurately, the weight of the added equipment and the specific location (arm) at which it is mounted relative to a reference point (usually the aircraft's datum) must be taken into account. This involves calculating the moment created by the new equipment, which is the product of the weight and its distance from the reference point. By combining this information with the existing weight and CG location of the aircraft, you can find the new CG position.

This approach ensures that the aircraft remains within its designed weight and balance limits, helping to prevent issues such as stalling or difficulty in controlling the aircraft during flight. Consulting standard CG locations or weight and balance charts might provide useful information, but they won't give a precise calculation of the new CG with the added equipment. Instead, direct recalculation offers the most accurate and safe update to meet operational requirements.