How does an aircraft's center of gravity affect its performance?

The center of gravity (CG) of an aircraft plays a crucial role in its overall performance, particularly regarding stability, control, and handling. When the CG is located within the manufacturer's specified limits, the aircraft exhibits stable flight characteristics. A properly positioned CG allows for better pitch control and mitigates adverse yaw and roll tendencies.

If the CG is too far forward, the aircraft may become nose-heavy, which can lead to increased control forces needed to manage the pitch attitude and may result in slower response rates to control inputs. Conversely, if the CG is too far aft, the aircraft may become tail-heavy, leading to a decreased stability margin which can cause the aircraft to be more challenging to control and more susceptible to stalling.

Hence, the correct answer emphasizes the importance of the CG in ensuring that the aircraft flies smoothly and responsively, maintaining the intended flight path and allowing the pilot to effectively manage the aircraft during various flight phases. Understanding this aspect is critical for safe and efficient flight operations.