Private Pilot Private Exam

What is one consequence of having a center of gravity too far aft?

1. Improved fuel efficiency

2. Higher stall speed

3. Reduced control effectiveness

4. Increased climb performance

The correct answer is: Reduced control effectiveness

Having a center of gravity positioned too far aft can significantly impact the aircraft's handling characteristics, leading to reduced control effectiveness. When the center of gravity shifts towards the tail, the aircraft may become less stable, which makes it more challenging for the pilot to control. This configuration can increase the likelihood of undesirable flight behaviors, such as difficulty recovering from stalls or increased sensitivity to control inputs. With the center of gravity too far aft, the aircraft's pitch stability is compromised. This instability manifests as a tendency for the nose of the aircraft to rise excessively, which can lead to a higher risk of stalls, particularly during critical phases of flight like takeoff and landing. Consequently, the pilot must exert more effort and precision to maintain normal flight control, thereby compromising overall effectiveness. The other options do not accurately reflect the consequences of having an aft center of gravity. For instance, improved fuel efficiency and increased climb performance are not characteristics associated with compromising stability. Higher stall speed is also misrepresented; an aft center of gravity typically lowers stall speed in some cases, but it creates a higher risk of stalling without warning, particularly when margins are tight. Thus, the correct choice highlights the profound impact of a misaligned center of gravity on control effectiveness.