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Effect of flying with CG out of limits

Aviation Mechanic General (AMG) practice question 8 of 25 on Weight and Balance. ACS element AM.I.C.R3 · difficulty: recall. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Aviation Mechanic General (AMG) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONIf an aircraft is flown with its CG outside the allowable limits, the most likely result is

  1. Aa higher stall speed but no change in control response
  2. Binsufficient stability and difficulty controlling the aircraft
  3. Creduced engine power output from the trim setting needed to hold level flight
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. insufficient stability and difficulty controlling the aircraft

  • A — incorrect Control response is exactly what suffers; the handbook describes poor maneuverability and controllability, possibly making the aircraft impossible to fly.
  • B — correct The handbook states that if the CG limits are exceeded and the aircraft is flown in that condition, it may lead to insufficient stability with resulting difficulty in controlling the aircraft.
  • C — incorrect Trim does not reduce engine output; an out-of-limits CG affects stability and control, and a nose-heavy condition increases drag and fuel flow.

BACKGROUND

An aircraft has fixed fore and aft CG limits beyond which the CG should not be permitted at any time during flight. A check must be made to ensure the CG will not shift out of limits as crew, passengers, cargo, and expendable weights are added or removed. If the limits are exceeded and the aircraft is flown that way, it may lead to insufficient stability and resulting difficulty in controlling the aircraft. The handbook adds that an aircraft without good balance can exhibit poor maneuverability and controllability, making it difficult or impossible to fly, which is why safety is the primary reason for concern about weight and balance.

STUDY TIP

Connect out-of-limits CG with stability and control problems; efficiency losses are a secondary effect.

KEY POINTS

  • CG limits must not be exceeded at any time in flight.
  • Out-of-limits CG causes insufficient stability and control difficulty.
  • Safety is the primary reason for weight and balance control.

SOURCES

  • FAA-H-8083-30B ch06 "Minimum Fuel" (adverse loading introduction)
  • FAA-H-8083-30B ch06 "Introduction"
Practice the Aviation Mechanic General (AMG) test →Timed 60-question exam, by ACS area, or review your misses. Free.
MORE ON WEIGHT AND BALANCE

SkyDrill is not affiliated with the FAA. This is an original practice item based on FAA-H-8083-30B Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook – General, 14 CFR part 43 and part 65. Regulations and handbooks are revised; confirm details against the current edition.