What is the primary purpose of ballast in weight and balance calculations?

What is the primary purpose of ballast in weight and balance calculations?

• A. To adjust the aircraft's empty weight
• B. To adjust the CG to within the allowed range
• C. To store fuel
• D. To replace payload

Answer: (B)

Balancing an aircraft requires keeping the center of gravity within the approved limits, and ballast is the tool used to make that adjustment. By placing a known amount of weight in designated locations, you can move the CG forward or aft as needed to compensate for how the payload and fuel are distributed. This keeps the aircraft controllable and stable throughout loading, fueling, and flight. Ballast is not about changing the empty weight, storing fuel, or replacing payload; its job is specifically to ensure the center of gravity stays within the certified range for safe flight. For example, if the cargo or passengers shift the CG too far forward, adding ballast toward the tail can bring the CG back toward the middle and within limits.

Balancing an aircraft requires keeping the center of gravity within the approved limits, and ballast is the tool used to make that adjustment. By placing a known amount of weight in designated locations, you can move the CG forward or aft as needed to compensate for how the payload and fuel are distributed. This keeps the aircraft controllable and stable throughout loading, fueling, and flight. Ballast is not about changing the empty weight, storing fuel, or replacing payload; its job is specifically to ensure the center of gravity stays within the certified range for safe flight. For example, if the cargo or passengers shift the CG too far forward, adding ballast toward the tail can bring the CG back toward the middle and within limits.