What is the primary consequence if an aircraft is loaded outside its CG limits?

Loading an aircraft outside its center of gravity (CG) limits primarily leads to poor controllability and can even result in a loss of control. The CG is vital for stable flight; when it is positioned too far forward or too far aft, it adversely affects the aircraft’s handling characteristics.

For instance, if the CG is too far forward, the aircraft may become nose-heavy, which can make it difficult to raise the nose for takeoff or maintain climb. Conversely, if the CG is too far aft, the aircraft can become tail-heavy, leading to a situation where the aircraft is more prone to stall and may not respond predictably to control inputs.

These unbalanced conditions directly compromise the pilot's ability to navigate the aircraft safely because they can lead to increased pitch sensitivity, difficulty in controlling descent rates, and ultimately, the risk of losing control entirely during critical phases of flight. Understanding the importance of keeping the CG within specified limits is essential for ensuring the aircraft remains manageable and safe to operate.