Which aspect of an aircraft's performance is most affected by an aft CG position?

• A. Increased stability
• B. Higher stall speed
• C. Decreased maneuverability
• D. Lower stall speed

Answer: (D)

An aft center of gravity (CG) position significantly impacts an aircraft's stall speed by lowering it. When the CG moves aft, the aircraft's aerodynamic characteristics change, resulting in a reduced angle of attack necessary to reach the critical stall condition. This decrease means that the stall speed, or the minimum speed required to maintain controlled flight, is lower in an aft CG configuration.

With a more aft CG, there's a possibility for the aircraft to exhibit decreased stability, potentially leading to difficulty in recovering from stalls. This can make the aircraft feel more sensitive to controls, which can affect handling but does not directly relate to an increase in stall speed. Instead, the reduced stall speed enhances the aircraft's low-speed performance—making it easier to operate at lower speeds—although it can also introduce risks in terms of control.

In summary, the impact of an aft CG position on stall speed is crucial for pilots to understand, as it influences flight behavior, stability, and the margins for safe operation at lower speeds.