Aircraft Weight and Balance Handbook

Aircraft Weight and Balance Handbook

FAA 8083-1A reprint contains helpful information on weight and balance for pilots, flight engineers, and aviation maintenance technicians (AMTs).

This book explains in detail the process to determine the weight and balance of any aircraft. This new edition, effective March 2007, has been updated to include information on new Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) and Very Light Jet (VLJ) categories. Applicable to both airplanes and helicopters, this book is a primary reference for all FAA Knowledge Exams for both pilots and mechanics.

Weight and balance is one of the most important factors affecting safety of flight. An overweight aircraft, or one whose center of gravity is outside the allowable limits, is inefficient and dangerous to fly. The responsibility for proper weight and balance control begins with the engineers and designers and extends to the pilot who operates and the aviation maintenance technician who maintains the aircraft.