If an aircraft has a CG too far aft, what is a primary concern during take-off?

When an aircraft has a center of gravity (CG) too far aft, one of the primary concerns during take-off is instability upon rotation. This is because the stability of the aircraft during various phases of flight depends significantly on the position of the CG.

If the CG is located too far aft, it can lead to a decreased authority of the control surfaces, particularly the elevator, making it difficult for the pilot to maintain a stable pitch attitude during the rotation phase of take-off. Rotation requires a precise attitude change; if the CG is too far back, even small inputs on the control stick or control yoke can result in significant changes in pitch attitude. This instability can lead to the risk of a stall, especially if the aircraft rotates at a high angle of attack.

Being mindful of CG placement is crucial for safe operation, as an unstable aircraft can lead to control issues that may compromise the safety of the flight.