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Balance point and center of lift

Aviation Mechanic General (AMG) practice question 15 of 25 on Weight and Balance. ACS element AM.I.C.K5 · difficulty: recall. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Aviation Mechanic General (AMG) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONFor an aircraft to fly in its most efficient condition, its balance point should fall

  1. Aclose to or exactly at the center of lift
  2. Bas far forward as the CG range permits, for stability
  3. Cat the leading edge of the mean aerodynamic chord
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. close to or exactly at the center of lift

  • A — correct The handbook states the most efficient condition is for the balance point to fall close to, or exactly at, the aircraft's center of lift, so little or no control force is needed for level flight.
  • B — incorrect A very forward CG makes the aircraft nose heavy, requiring higher tail forces, more drag, and more fuel; that is less efficient, not more.
  • C — incorrect The MAC leading edge is a reference for expressing CG as a percentage on large airplanes; it is not the point of most efficient balance.

BACKGROUND

Aircraft balance affects efficiency as well as safety. The most efficient condition is for the point where the aircraft balances to fall close to, or exactly at, the center of lift, because then little or no flight control force is needed to keep the aircraft flying straight and level. The handbook notes, however, that in terms of stability and safety this perfectly balanced condition might not be desirable. Improper loading reduces efficiency in ceiling, maneuverability, rate of climb, speed, and fuel consumption.

STUDY TIP

Efficiency comes from balancing near the center of lift; stability considerations are why the certificated range is not centered exactly there.

KEY POINTS

  • Most efficient balance is at or near the center of lift.
  • Little or no control force is then needed for level flight.
  • Stability may make a slightly different balance desirable.

SOURCES

  • 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.