What change in aircraft behavior does an aft centre of gravity create during steep climbs?

An aft center of gravity shifts the aircraft's balance rearward, which significantly influences its handling characteristics, particularly during steep climbs. Specifically, the center of gravity location affects the distribution of lift and the aerodynamic forces acting on the aircraft.

When an aircraft has an aft center of gravity, it typically requires less control input to maintain pitch. This can lead to a decrease in control responsiveness, meaning the pilot may feel that the aircraft is less stable or more difficult to control effectively during aggressive maneuvers like steep climbs. The rearward shift can cause the aircraft to have a tendency to pitch up more easily, which can lead to over-rotation, and in extreme cases, it might even lead to a stall if not managed properly.

Therefore, the decreased control responsiveness could result in challenges during phases of flight that require precise handling, particularly in climbs where the pilot is trying to maintain optimal climb performance and angle. Understanding this dynamic is crucial for flight safety and effective aircraft operation, especially when loading the aircraft in a manner that may shift the center of gravity aft.