Which document provides the official record of weight distribution and CG limits for a flight?

Which document provides the official record of weight distribution and CG limits for a flight?

• A. Dispatch release only.
• B. Weather chart.
• C. Weight and Balance Documentation.
• D. Maintenance log.

Answer: (C)

Weight and balance documentation is the official record that shows how weight is distributed and where the center of gravity lies for a given flight. It contains the approved weight and moment data, the current loading data, and the CG limits defined for the aircraft. This document is used to confirm that the aircraft will operate within its published weight and CG envelope, which is essential for safe handling, stability, and performance. It is updated whenever payload, fuel, or equipment changes, ensuring the flight stays within limits. The other documents do not serve this purpose: a dispatch release provides flight authorization and operational details but isn’t the formal record of weight distribution; a weather chart conveys meteorological information; a maintenance log tracks maintenance actions and alterations, not loading data.

Weight and balance documentation is the official record that shows how weight is distributed and where the center of gravity lies for a given flight. It contains the approved weight and moment data, the current loading data, and the CG limits defined for the aircraft. This document is used to confirm that the aircraft will operate within its published weight and CG envelope, which is essential for safe handling, stability, and performance. It is updated whenever payload, fuel, or equipment changes, ensuring the flight stays within limits.

The other documents do not serve this purpose: a dispatch release provides flight authorization and operational details but isn’t the formal record of weight distribution; a weather chart conveys meteorological information; a maintenance log tracks maintenance actions and alterations, not loading data.