Private Pilot Private Exam

What undesirable flight characteristic may occur if an airplane's center of gravity (CG) is located aft of the aft CG limit?

1. Difficulty in recovering from a stalled condition

2. Increased maneuverability during turns

3. Improved climb rate

4. Enhanced stability during turbulence

The correct answer is: Difficulty in recovering from a stalled condition

When an airplane's center of gravity (CG) is positioned aft of the aft CG limit, one of the primary undesirable flight characteristics that may arise is difficulty in recovering from a stalled condition. This situation occurs because an aft CG can reduce the effectiveness of the elevator and alter the aircraft's pitch stability, making it more challenging to control the aircraft's attitude during a stall. In general, an aft CG tends to increase the risk of deeper stalls, as the aircraft may require a more considerable nose-up attitude to achieve the same angle of attack. As a result, the elevator effectiveness diminishes, making it harder for the pilot to pitch the nose down and recover from a stall. The implications of this can lead to longer recovery times and potentially dangerous flight conditions if not managed properly. In contrast, the other choices suggest outcomes that generally would not occur with an aft CG. For instance, increased maneuverability during turns and improved climb rates might seem advantageous, but they do not address the inherent risks associated with an aft CG. Likewise, enhanced stability during turbulence is typically associated with a forward CG, which provides better control and stability, as opposed to the instability seen with an aft CG. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for pilots in maintaining safe operational limits and