What calculations are performed at the beginning of each flight?

The necessity for weight and balance calculations at the beginning of each flight is critical to ensuring that the aircraft operates safely and efficiently. These calculations help determine whether the aircraft is loaded within the manufacturer's limits for weight, center of gravity (CG), and balance. Proper weight distribution is essential because it affects the aircraft's performance, handling characteristics, and overall safety during flight. If an aircraft is overloaded or improperly balanced, it can lead to difficulties in controlling the aircraft, increased stall speeds, and even structural failure during flight due to excessive loads on the airframe.

The practice of verifying weight and balance is mandated by aviation regulations and is a key factor in pre-flight preparations. Pilots must ensure that the total weight does not exceed the aircraft's maximum allowable takeoff weight and that the distribution of that weight allows for optimal flight characteristics.

While other considerations such as altitude, airspeed, weather, and cost assessments are important for flight planning and operational efficiency, they do not directly address the immediate safety concerns associated with loading and balance that weight and balance calculations do. Thus, performing these calculations is both a legal requirement and a safety measure integral to the flying process.