How is an aircraft's weight and balance calculated?

Calculating an aircraft's weight and balance is critical for ensuring the safety and efficiency of flight operations. The process involves a comprehensive assessment that includes the weight of the aircraft itself, along with all the occupants—passengers and crew, the cargo being transported, and the fuel load. This approach ensures that the total weight is within the aircraft's maximum allowable limits and that the center of gravity (CG) remains within acceptable parameters.

This holistic calculation helps prevent issues such as overloading, which could impact performance during takeoff, cruising, and landing, as well as stability in flight. Adequate understanding of how each component contributes to overall weight and CG is essential for dispatchers, pilots, and maintenance personnel to ensure safe flight operations.