What is meant by the gross weight of an airplane?

The gross weight of an airplane refers to the maximum allowable weight that includes the aircraft itself, along with all its contents such as fuel, passengers, baggage, and cargo. This figure is critical for flight safety, as each aircraft has a specified maximum gross weight that must not be exceeded to ensure structural integrity, performance standards, and safe takeoff and landing characteristics.

Understanding gross weight is essential because it helps pilots assess the aircraft's performance capabilities and compliance with regulations. Exceeding this weight can lead to compromised flight operations, including reduced climb rates, increased stall speed, and potential control difficulties.

The other choices do not accurately describe what gross weight encompasses. For example, the weight of the airplane without fuel and passengers only considers the empty weight, while the weight with only usable fuel excludes other essential components. The standard weight of an aircraft when manufactured does not take into account modifications or added equipment that may affect the aircraft's total weight.