In which situation would a heavier rearward CG place an airplane at greater risk?

• A. During takeoff
• B. During descent
• C. During landing
• D. During climb

Answer: (C)

A heavier rearward center of gravity (CG) significantly affects an airplane's stability and control, especially during landing. When the CG is too far aft, the aircraft can become difficult to handle. This situation can lead to reduced effectiveness of the elevators, causing longer landing distances, difficulty in maintaining proper pitch attitude, and increased risk of stalling since the tail may have less control authority to manage the aircraft's nose up attitude.

During landing, having a rearward CG can exacerbate the issues associated with increased drag and decreased lift, making it critical to have a properly balanced aircraft for safe maneuvering. Additionally, a heavier rearward CG raises the likelihood of the nose pitching up, which can result in a dangerous scenario if a stall occurs close to the ground.

While a rearward CG can present challenges during other flight phases, such as takeoff or climb, the risks during landing are particularly heightened due to the lower speeds and higher angles of attack typically associated with that phase of flight. This is where the balance and control become critically important for ensuring safe landings.