A small unmanned aircraft carries a jettisonable load that it will release partway through the flight. According to the FAA study guide, what should the remote PIC do about this planned weight change?
- ANothing, because the CG is a fixed point marked on the aircraft
- BNothing, because losing weight in flight can only improve performance and balance
- CDetermine how the CG will shift and the resulting effects on the aircraft
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Determine how the CG will shift and the resulting effects on the aircraft
Releasing an expendable load changes the aircraft's weight in flight. Performance may improve, but the CG may shift and balance may suffer, so the remote PIC should determine how the CG will shift and what that does to the aircraft.
- A. Incorrect. The CG is not a fixed point; its location depends on the distribution of the aircraft's weight.
- B. Incorrect. A lighter aircraft performs better, but the weight change could have a negative effect on balance.
- C. Correct. As variable load items are shifted or expended, the CG may shift, and the remote PIC should determine how it will shift and the effects.
FAA-G-8082-22 Remote Pilot – sUAS Study Guide, Chapter 4, Introduction As variable load items are shifted or expended, there may be a resultant shift in CG location. The remote PIC should determine how the CG will shift and the resultant effects on the aircraft.
FAA-G-8082-22 Remote Pilot – sUAS Study Guide, Chapter 4, Introduction In small UA operations, weight change during flight may occur when expendable items are used on board (e.g., a jettisonable load).
FAA-G-8082-22 Remote Pilot – sUAS Study Guide, Chapter 4, Introduction The CG is not a fixed point marked on the aircraft; its location depends on the distribution of aircraft weight.