How is the center of gravity (CG) of an aircraft determined?

The center of gravity (CG) of an aircraft is determined by dividing the total moments by the total weight. This method involves calculating the moments created by the weight of each component of the aircraft (including the aircraft structure, payload, fuel, and crew) about a reference point, typically the datum. The total moment is the sum of all these individual moments, and the total weight is simply the sum of all the weights of the components being considered.

This calculation yields the CG location, which is crucial for ensuring stability and control during flight. The CG affects the aircraft’s performance, including its ability to pitch and maintain equilibrium. Knowing the CG helps pilots and engineers maintain safe loading and balance configurations.

Other options do not provide a method for determining the CG accurately. Averaging the weights of the crew does not take into account the distribution of all weights within the aircraft, measuring the wingspan is unrelated to the CG, and calculating fuel consumption does not directly relate to the position of the CG since it doesn’t include the weights of other components required for a complete CG calculation.