Weight and Center of Gravity Limits

The weight limits and the C.G. envelope decide whether a given load may fly at all. The envelope is short: a handful of points, joined by straight lines.

At a glance

• Maximum weight, normal2440 LBS
• Maximum ramp weight, normal2447 LBS
• Maximum baggage, normal200 LBS
• Maximum weight, utility2020 LBS
• Maximum ramp weight, utility2027 LBS
• Maximum baggage, utility0 LBS
• Aft C.G. limit (both categories)93.0 in
• Forward limit, normal, 2440 lb88.3 in
• Forward limit, 1950 lb and less83.0 in
• Forward limit, utility, 2020 lb83.8 in
• Datum78.4 in ahead of the wing leading edge

Weight limits

In the normal category the maximum weight is 2440 LBS, the maximum ramp weight 2447 LBS and the maximum baggage 200 LBS. In the utility category the figures are 2020 LBS, 2027 LBS and 0 LBS. The maximum weight as limited by performance is found in the performance charts.

C.G. limits

All C.G. positions are in inches aft of the datum. The datum is 78.4 inches ahead of the wing leading edge, at the inboard intersection of the straight and tapered section.

Normal category

• At 2440 lb: forward 88.3, rearward 93.0

• At 1950 lb and less: forward 83.0, rearward 93.0

Between the points given, the limits vary in a straight line.

Utility category

• At 1950 lb and less: forward 83.0, rearward 93.0

• At 2020 lb: forward 83.8, rearward 93.0

Figure: Center of gravity limits (redrawn).

The aft limit never moves — 93.0 inches at every weight in both categories. Only the forward limit changes with weight.

Check yourself

• What are the maximum weight, ramp weight and baggage in each category?

• What is the aft C.G. limit?

• What is the forward C.G. limit at 2440 lb, at 2020 lb in the utility category, and at 1950 lb and less?

• How do the limits vary between the listed points?

• Where is the datum?

Study aid — always fly your aircraft's current AFM/POH.