What is the effect of forward center of gravity on stall characteristics?

What is the effect of forward center of gravity on stall characteristics?

• A. It decreases the stall speed
• B. It increases the stall speed
• C. It causes the aircraft to stall more gently
• D. It has no effect on stall characteristics

Answer: (B)

When the center of gravity (CG) is located forward in an aircraft, it generally increases the stall speed. This occurs because a forward CG shifts the aerodynamic balance of the aircraft, requiring a greater angle of attack to maintain level flight. Consequently, the aircraft must reach this higher angle of attack to achieve the necessary lift, leading to an increase in stall speed. In practical terms, this means that a forward CG condition can make the aircraft less responsive and may lead to a more abrupt stall, as the required control inputs to maintain flight at higher angles of attack are increased. Understanding the impact of CG on stall characteristics is crucial for safe flying and effective aircraft handling, particularly during critical phases like stalls or slow flight. Maintaining awareness of the CG location helps pilots manage their aircraft more effectively in different loading configurations.

When the center of gravity (CG) is located forward in an aircraft, it generally increases the stall speed. This occurs because a forward CG shifts the aerodynamic balance of the aircraft, requiring a greater angle of attack to maintain level flight. Consequently, the aircraft must reach this higher angle of attack to achieve the necessary lift, leading to an increase in stall speed.

In practical terms, this means that a forward CG condition can make the aircraft less responsive and may lead to a more abrupt stall, as the required control inputs to maintain flight at higher angles of attack are increased. Understanding the impact of CG on stall characteristics is crucial for safe flying and effective aircraft handling, particularly during critical phases like stalls or slow flight. Maintaining awareness of the CG location helps pilots manage their aircraft more effectively in different loading configurations.