What is the consequence of having an extremely rearward center of gravity on an aircraft?

What is the consequence of having an extremely rearward center of gravity on an aircraft?

• A. Improved stability and maneuverability
• B. Possibility of unintentional stalls and reduced safety
• C. Reduction in control effectiveness during landing
• D. Shorter landing roll and easier touchdown

Answer: (B)

Having an extremely rearward center of gravity (CG) significantly impacts an aircraft's flight characteristics, leading to a higher risk of unintentional stalls and compromised safety. With a CG positioned too far aft, the aircraft becomes less stable and more difficult to control, particularly at lower speeds and during critical phases of flight like takeoff and landing. In this condition, the aircraft may require a higher angle of attack to maintain level flight. If the angle of attack increases beyond the critical threshold while the CG is too far rearward, it can lead to a stall, where the wings no longer produce sufficient lift. Recovery from such a stall can be more challenging, especially because the tendency to pitch up increases, which exacerbates the situation. Therefore, managing the center of gravity is crucial for ensuring the aircraft remains controllable and safe throughout its operational envelope.

Having an extremely rearward center of gravity (CG) significantly impacts an aircraft's flight characteristics, leading to a higher risk of unintentional stalls and compromised safety. With a CG positioned too far aft, the aircraft becomes less stable and more difficult to control, particularly at lower speeds and during critical phases of flight like takeoff and landing.

In this condition, the aircraft may require a higher angle of attack to maintain level flight. If the angle of attack increases beyond the critical threshold while the CG is too far rearward, it can lead to a stall, where the wings no longer produce sufficient lift. Recovery from such a stall can be more challenging, especially because the tendency to pitch up increases, which exacerbates the situation. Therefore, managing the center of gravity is crucial for ensuring the aircraft remains controllable and safe throughout its operational envelope.