When the centre of gravity is forward, which of the following is true regarding stability?

Study for the ATPL Intensive Program Exam. Use multiple choice questions and flashcards, each with hints and explanations. Master your exam preparation and succeed!

When the center of gravity (CG) is positioned forward in an aircraft, it inherently contributes to increased stability. This is primarily because a forward CG tends to increase the restoring moments when the aircraft is disturbed from its equilibrium position. In aviation, a forward center of gravity is typically associated with a more stable flight configuration, as the aircraft is less prone to pitch oscillations and more likely to return to its original flight path after being disturbed.

As fuel is consumed during flight, the center of gravity often shifts rearward due to the location of fuel tanks relative to the aircraft's overall balance. This shift can potentially reduce the stability of the aircraft because a rearward CG can lead to decreased control and increased sensitivity to pitch changes. Therefore, if the question implies that fuel consumption decreases, which allows for maintaining or increasing a forward CG, it logically follows that stability increases as a result.

In this context, when considering the relationship between stability and fuel consumption, if fuel consumption is decreased, it means that the CG is not shifting rearward as rapidly, thereby enhancing stability in the forward configuration. The understanding of how CG affects stability is crucial for pilots in ensuring safe and effective aircraft operations.

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