FAA Weight & Balance Regulations and Standards

Weight & Balance Guidelines for Operators

Weight & Balance Handbook – This handbook provides fundamental principles of aircraft weight and balance. It explains proper weight distribution, center of gravity (CG) calculations, and loading techniques.

AC 120-27F – Establishes weight and balance control programs for commercial operators. It ensures safe aircraft loading, passenger weight estimations, and cargo distribution procedures.

Weight & Balance Regulations for Charter and Airline Operations

14 CFR 135.185 – Defines fuel requirements and landing weight limitations for Part 135 (charter) operators. It ensures aircraft meet necessary fuel reserves and weight conditions before departure.

AC 121-29B – Provides weight and balance management guidance for Part 121 (airline) operators. It details approved methods for aircraft weight control and operational compliance.

FAA Orders and Advisory Circulars for Weight & Balance Compliance

Weight & Balance Considerations in Aircraft Certification

AC 20-161 – Establishes methods for determining aircraft weight and balance during certification. It ensures proper CG location and compliance with airworthiness requirements.

FAA Oversight and Compliance Monitoring

FAA Order 8900V3CH47S1 – Provides FAA inspector guidance on weight and balance program compliance. It ensures operators adhere to weight control and aircraft loading regulations.

DCT 4.4.5 – Defines weight and balance inspection procedures. It includes data collection techniques for verifying aircraft load limits.