As the center of gravity (CG) moves aft, how does the stability and controllability of an aircraft change?

As the center of gravity (CG) moves aft, how does the stability and controllability of an aircraft change?

• A. More stable and more controllable
• B. Less stable and more controllable
• C. Less stable and less controllable
• D. Stable and uncontrollable

Answer: (C)

When the center of gravity (CG) moves aft, the stability and controllability of an aircraft are affected in significant ways. An aft CG tends to reduce the static stability of the aircraft. This is because the aircraft's weight distribution shifts towards the rear, making it more prone to pitch oscillations and less able to return to a level flight attitude after being disturbed. Additionally, less static stability corresponds with a reduction in the overall control authority of the aircraft. This can make it more challenging for pilots to maintain desired flight attitudes, as the aircraft may respond more sluggishly or unpredictably to control inputs. Furthermore, when the CG is located further aft, the control surfaces may have to work harder to achieve desired maneuvers, potentially leading to greater difficulty in controlling the aircraft effectively, especially during critical phases of flight. Therefore, with an aft CG, the aircraft becomes less stable and less controllable, which is reflected in the correct choice.

When the center of gravity (CG) moves aft, the stability and controllability of an aircraft are affected in significant ways. An aft CG tends to reduce the static stability of the aircraft. This is because the aircraft's weight distribution shifts towards the rear, making it more prone to pitch oscillations and less able to return to a level flight attitude after being disturbed.

Additionally, less static stability corresponds with a reduction in the overall control authority of the aircraft. This can make it more challenging for pilots to maintain desired flight attitudes, as the aircraft may respond more sluggishly or unpredictably to control inputs. Furthermore, when the CG is located further aft, the control surfaces may have to work harder to achieve desired maneuvers, potentially leading to greater difficulty in controlling the aircraft effectively, especially during critical phases of flight.

Therefore, with an aft CG, the aircraft becomes less stable and less controllable, which is reflected in the correct choice.