Weight & Balance
How does loading an aircraft above its maximum allowable gross weight most directly affect its performance?
Answer
It raises the stall speed and lengthens the takeoff roll
Excess weight forces a higher angle of attack and airspeed to produce the required lift, so stall speed rises, takeoff distance lengthens, and rate of climb falls, while the structure carries loads beyond its design values. The landing roll gets longer too, not shorter, because the heavier aircraft lands at a higher speed, and keeping the CG in limits does not offset an overweight condition.
Source: FAA-H-8083-1B, Ch. 1 — 'Effects of Weight' (higher takeoff speed and longer takeoff run, reduced rate and angle of climb, longer landing roll, excessive loads imposed on the structure)
Not the answer
- It has no effect on performance as long as the CG stays within limits
- It lengthens the takeoff roll but shortens the landing roll
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