What is the center of gravity of an aircraft?

The center of gravity (CG) of an aircraft is defined as the point about which the aircraft would balance if it could be suspended. This point is crucial for maintaining the stability and control of the aircraft during flight. When an aircraft is in perfect balance, the forces acting on it are equally distributed around this point, allowing for predictable handling characteristics.

Understanding the CG is essential for pilots because it has a significant impact on the aircraft's performance. If the CG is too far forward or too far aft, it can lead to difficulties in controlling the aircraft, potentially resulting in unsafe flight conditions. Thus, determining the CG and ensuring it remains within prescribed limits is a vital part of pre-flight checks and overall flight safety.