Piper SEMINOLE 2013 Pilot Operating Handbook page 175

PA-44-180, SEMINOLE
6.1 GENERAL
In order to achieve the performance and flying characteristics which
are designed into the airplane, it must be flown with the weight and center
of gravity (C.G.) position within the approved operating range (envelope).
Although the airplane offers flexibility of loading, it cannot be flown with the
maximum number of adult passengers, full fuel tanks and maximum baggage.
With the flexibility comes responsibility. The pilot must ensure that the
airplane is loaded within the loading envelope before he makes a takeoff.
Misloading carries consequences for any aircraft. An overloaded airplane
will not take off, climb or cruise as well as a properly loaded one. The heavier
the airplane is loaded, the less climb performance it will have.
Center of gravity is a determining factor in flight characteristics. If the
C.G. is too far forward in any airplane, it may be difficult to rotate for takeoff
or landing. If the C.G. is too far aft, the airplane may rotate prematurely on
takeoff or tend to pitch up during climb. Longitudinal stability will be reduced.
This can lead to inadvertent stalls and even spins; and spin recovery becomes
more difficult as the center of gravity moves aft of the approved limit.
A properly loaded airplane, however, will perform as intended. This
airplane is designed to provide performance within the flight envelope. Before
the airplane is delivered, it is weighed, and a basic empty weight and C.G.
location is computed (basic empty weight consists of the standard empty
weight of the airplane plus the optional equipment). Using the basic empty
weight and C.G. location, the pilot can determine the weight and C.G. position
for the loaded airplane by computing the total weight and moment and then
determining whether they are within the approved envelope.
ISSUED: June 5, 2013
SEcTION 6
WEIGhT AND BALANcE
wEIghT ANd bALANCE
REPORT: VB-2307
SECTION 6
6-1