What effect does a 35-gallon fuel burn have on the weight and balance of an aircraft weighing 2,890 pounds with a MOM/100 of 2,452 at takeoff?

• A. Weight is increased by 210 pounds and CG is forward of limits
• B. Weight is reduced by 210 pounds and the CG is aft of limits
• C. Weight remains unchanged and CG is at limits
• D. Weight is reduced by 300 pounds and CG is well within limits

Answer: (B)

The correct answer reflects the effects of a 35-gallon fuel burn on both the aircraft's weight and its center of gravity (CG). When fuel, which contributes to the overall weight of the aircraft, is burned, the total weight of the aircraft decreases. Given that aviation fuel weighs approximately 6 pounds per gallon, burning 35 gallons results in a weight reduction of about 210 pounds (35 gallons x 6 pounds per gallon).

As the weight decreases, it is essential to consider how this affects the CG. The CG moves based on the distribution of weight within the aircraft. As fuel burns, the weight is removed from a specific location in the aircraft, typically from the fuel tanks which are located in various positions around the aircraft. If burning fuel results in a reduction in weight and the CG is inherently designed to be located forward of limits at full fuel, that reduction could potentially shift the CG aft, especially if the aircraft was already close to the limits or if the design was optimized for more weight in the forward section.

In this scenario, it is assessed that after burning 35 gallons, though the weight reduces, the CG movement results in it being positioned aft of limits. This indicates the aircraft might now experience handling characteristics that could lead to