The pilot weight and balance calculator helps you verify that your aircraft's total weight and center of gravity (CG) are within limits before flight. Select an aircraft preset or enter custom values for accurate W&B calculations.
Passenger & Cargo Loads
CG Envelope
Moment Table
| Item | Weight | Arm | Moment |
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How to Use the Pilot Weight & Balance Calculator
Weight and balance is one of the most critical preflight checks a pilot performs. An improperly loaded aircraft can be impossible to control, even if it appears safe on the ground. This calculator helps you understand W&B concepts and estimate your aircraft's CG position.
Step 1: Select your aircraft
Choose a preset aircraft (Cessna 172, Cessna 182, or Piper Cherokee PA-28) or select "Custom" to enter your own empty weight, arms, and CG limits from your aircraft's POH data page. The Cessna 172 has an empty weight of approximately 1,691 lbs and a max gross of 2,558 lbs.
Step 2: Enter passenger and cargo weights
Enter the weights for the pilot, front passenger, rear passengers combined, and baggage. Use actual weights — "standard passenger" weights (170 lbs in summer, 190 lbs in winter) are FAA averages but actual weights are safer. Remember the baggage compartment weight limit for your aircraft.
Step 3: Enter fuel load
Enter fuel in gallons (avgas weighs 6 lbs/gal). Most Cessna 172s have 53 usable gallons; with 4 people aboard you'll likely need to limit fuel. The fuel arm varies by aircraft — check your POH. Many 172s have a fuel arm around 48 inches from datum.
Understanding the results
The CG position must fall between the forward and aft limits for your aircraft at the current weight. The envelope bar shows where your CG falls relative to the limits. Green means you're within limits; red means you're outside and the flight is not safe with this loading configuration.
Always use your POH
This tool uses average values that may not match your specific aircraft's actual empty weight and moment. Individual aircraft vary due to modifications, repairs, and installed equipment. Always perform official W&B from your current weight and balance data sheet.
FAQ
What is weight and balance in aviation?
Weight and balance refers to the total aircraft weight compared to its maximum gross weight limit, and the center of gravity (CG) position along the aircraft's longitudinal axis. Both must be within limits for safe flight — exceeding either can result in structural damage or loss of control.
How is center of gravity calculated?
CG is calculated by summing all moments (weight × arm) and dividing by the total weight. The arm is the distance in inches from the aircraft's datum reference point. If total moment / total weight falls within the forward and aft CG limits, the aircraft is balanced correctly.
What happens if my aircraft is out of CG limits?
A forward CG makes the aircraft nose-heavy, requiring more up elevator and reducing the stall margin. An aft CG beyond limits makes the aircraft tail-heavy and potentially uncontrollable. Never fly outside CG limits — always use your aircraft's Pilot Operating Handbook (POH) for official calculations.
How many pounds does aviation fuel weigh?
Avgas (100LL) weighs approximately 6 lbs per US gallon (0.72 kg/L). Jet-A weighs about 6.7 lbs per gallon. This calculator uses 6 lbs/gallon as the default for piston aircraft.
Is this calculator accurate enough for actual flight planning?
This tool provides educational estimates only. Always perform official W&B calculations using your specific aircraft's POH and the actual moment tables. Individual aircraft empty weights and arms vary from the published averages.
Is this tool free?
Yes, completely free with no signup required.