FAA commercial helicopter pilot theory foundations study materials
FAA commercial helicopter pilot theory foundations study resources

A weighted center-of-gravity result

FAA commercial helicopter pilot theory foundations · Put your knowledge to work in context.

All case studies

A weighted center-of-gravity result

A fictional helicopter loading model gives an initial weight of 1800 pounds at an arm of 100 inches from the datum. It adds 250 pounds of fuel at 110 inches. The exercise assumes both arms use the same reference and that these are the complete model quantities. A learner averages 100 and 110 without weighting by mass. Another calculates the new position but assumes it must be within limits because the fuel is in an installed tank. The task asks for the combined weight and center of gravity and what cannot yet be concluded. No actual longitudinal or lateral envelope, maximum weight, usable-fuel definition or performance chart is supplied. A sound response must preserve the weighted moments and distinguish a correctly calculated value from approved loading and available flight capability.

1. Calculate combined weight and center of gravity.

Read the worked answer

Weight is 2050 pounds. Moment is 1800×100+250×110=207500 pound-inches. The center of gravity is 207500/2050, approximately 101.2 inches from datum.

2. Does the tank location prove the loaded helicopter is approved?

Read the worked answer

No. The applicable weight and center-of-gravity limits and other requirements must be checked. An installed tank does not make every payload-and-fuel combination acceptable.