What is Center of Gravity?

• A. The point at which the aircraft's structural weight is evenly distributed.
• B. The point at which all of the weight of an object is considered to be concentrated (the point at which the aircraft would be perfectly balanced).
• C. The aerodynamic center of lift.
• D. The location of the fuel tank.

Answer: (B)

Center of gravity is the balance point of an aircraft—the single point where the total weight can be considered to be concentrated. If the airplane were supported exactly at this point, it would balance, and CG is effectively the weighted average of all weights (empty structure, engines, fuel, payload) and where they’re located. This position governs stability and controllability: a CG too far forward makes the airplane nose-heavy and harder to raise the nose; a CG too far aft reduces stability and can lead to less predictable handling. So, keeping the CG within the approved range is essential for safe performance.

The other descriptions aren’t correct because the CG isn’t simply an even weight distribution point, nor is it the aerodynamic center of lift. It’s also not merely the location of the fuel tank, even though fuel movement changes the CG; CG is the overall balance point considering all weights.