Weight & Balance
What does an aircraft's maximum zero fuel weight represent?
Answer
The heaviest the aircraft can be loaded without any usable fuel in the tanks; any weight above that value must be fuel
Maximum zero fuel weight is the heaviest weight an aircraft can be loaded to without having any usable fuel in the fuel tanks, and any weight loaded above that value must be in the form of fuel. Maximum landing weight and maximum takeoff weight are separate published limits, and none of them is derived by subtracting engine weight.
Source: FAA-H-8083-30B, Ch. 6 p. 6-3 — 'Weight and Balance Terminology — Maximum Zero Fuel Weight'
Not the answer
- The empty weight of the aircraft less the weight of the engines
- The heaviest weight at which the aircraft may land
- The weight of the aircraft with all fuel tanks completely full
Practice this
The FAA Aviation Mechanic General knowledge test is 60 questions and takes 42 correct — 70% — to pass. The app’s page carries a free ten-question test drawn from the same bank, marked as you go.
Take the free practice test