Which role does the Aircraft Flight Manual (AFM) serve in weight and balance considerations?

The Aircraft Flight Manual (AFM) plays a critical role in weight and balance considerations by detailing weight and balance limitations that are essential for the safe operation of the aircraft. This includes specifications about the maximum allowable weight, center of gravity limits, and the impact of various loading configurations on aircraft performance.

Understanding the weight and balance limitations outlined in the AFM is crucial for ensuring that the aircraft remains within the safe operational parameters, which directly affects stability, control, and overall safety during flight. The AFM serves as a primary reference for pilots and operators to verify that the aircraft is loaded properly before flight, preventing potential issues that could arise from improper weight distribution or exceeding weight limits. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes the importance of the AFM in maintaining safe flight operations through appropriate weight management.

The other choices do not directly relate to weight and balance considerations as the AFM is fundamentally designed to focus on operational limitations and safety guidelines rather than historical data, maintenance schedules, or pilot evaluations.