What is the CG range concept for the A321?

• A. The CG must stay within forward and aft limits to maintain stability and controllability; fuel and payload distribution influence CG
• B. The CG can be anywhere as long as weight is within maximum takeoff weight
• C. The CG is fixed after loading
• D. The CG only affects rate of climb

Answer: (A)

The CG range concept is about keeping the aircraft’s center of gravity within defined forward and aft limits to guarantee stable, controllable flight. The position of the CG is determined by how weight is distributed—fuel, passengers, baggage, and cargo all shift the moment about the aircraft. For the A321, these limits are specified to ensure adequate elevator effectiveness, predictable pitch behavior, and safe handling across the flight envelope. As fuel is burned and payload shifts during flight, the CG moves, so the limits are designed to accommodate that movement and keep handling within safe margins from takeoff through landing. That’s why staying within the forward and aft CG limits, with the distribution of fuel and payload taken into account, is essential. The other statements miss key aspects: CG location matters even if weight is within maximum takeoff weight; it is not fixed after loading, since fuel burn and loading can change it; and CG influences more than just rate of climb, affecting stability, control authority, stall characteristics, and overall handling.