How is the center of gravity affected by the distribution of weight in the plane?

The center of gravity of an aircraft is crucial for its stability and control. It is determined by the distribution of weight throughout the airframe. When weight is added to the rear of the aircraft, the overall balance point or center of gravity shifts backward. This occurs because the center of gravity is calculated based on the moment created by the distribution of weight around a specified reference point. As more weight is placed toward the tail, it increases the moment about that reference point, causing the center of gravity to move in the direction of the additional weight – which is backward in this case.

Understanding this shift is fundamental for maintaining the balance and stability of an aircraft. An improperly balanced aircraft can affect its performance, potentially making it difficult to control under different flight conditions. Therefore, knowing how weight distribution impacts the center of gravity is essential for safe flying operations.