Cessna 208B - Introduction

CESSNA SECTION 6
MODEL 2088 (675 SHP) WEIGHT & BALANCEIEQUIPMENT LIST
INTRODUCTION
This section describes the procedure for establishing the basic empty
weight and moment of the airplane. Sample forms are provided for
reference. Procedures for calculating the weight and moment for
various operations are also provided.
In order to achieve the performance and flight characteristics which are
designed into the airplane, it must be flown within approved weight and
center of gravity limits. Although the airplane offers flexibility of loading,
it cannot be flown with full fuel tanks and a full complement of
passengers or a normal crew and both cabin and cargo pod (if
installed) loading zones filled to maximum capacity. The pilot must
utilize the loading flexibility to ensure the airplane does not exceed its
maximum weight limits and is loaded within the center of gravity range
before takeoff.
Weight is important because it is a basis for many flight and structural
characteristics. As weight increases, takeoff speed must be greater
since stall speeds are increased, the rate of acceleration decreases,
and the required takeoff distance increases. Weight in excess of the
maximum takeoff weight may be a contributing factor to an accident,
especially when coupled with other factors such as temperature, field
elevation, and runway conditions, all of which may adversely affect the
airplane's performance. Climb, cruise, and landing erformance will
also be affected. Flights at excess weight are possi
b' le, and may be
within the performance capability of the airplane, but loads for which
the airplane was not designed may be imposed on the structure,
especially during landing.
The pilot should routinely determine the balance of the airplane since it
is possible to be within the maximum weight limit and still exceed the
center of gravity limits. An airplane loading which exceeds the forward
center of gravity limit may place heavy loads on the nose wheel, and
the airplane will be slightly more difficult to rotate for takeoff or flare for
landing. If the center of gravity is too far aft, the airplane may rotate
prematurely on takeoff, depending on trim settings.
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U.S.
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