Private Pilot Private Exam

What should be drained if an aircraft is loaded 90 pounds over maximum gross weight?

1. 10 gallons

2. 15 gallons

3. 18 gallons

4. 20 gallons

The correct answer is: 15 gallons

When an aircraft is loaded beyond its maximum gross weight, it is crucial to reduce the weight to ensure safe operation. The correct course of action involves determining how many gallons of fuel need to be drained to achieve the desired weight reduction. To find the weight per gallon of fuel, it is essential to know that aviation gasoline typically weighs about 6 pounds per gallon. Therefore, to figure out how many gallons should be drained, one can use the formula: Weight to be reduced (in pounds) ÷ Weight of fuel per gallon (in pounds) = Number of gallons to drain. In this scenario, the aircraft is over the maximum gross weight by 90 pounds. Dividing this excess weight by the weight of aviation fuel gives: 90 pounds ÷ 6 pounds/gallon = 15 gallons. This calculation reveals that draining 15 gallons of fuel will bring the aircraft back down to its maximum gross weight limit, ensuring that it meets regulatory requirements and maintains safety. Thus, the correct answer accurately addresses the need to manage weight and ensure safe compliance with operational limits.