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How does a forward center of gravity generally affect longitudinal stability?

Choices

  • It increases stability but requires more elevator forcecorrect

    A forward CG increases longitudinal stability while making the elevator heavier.

  • It decreases stability and lightens the controls

    That describes an aft CG, not a forward CG.

  • It has no effect on stability

    CG position strongly affects longitudinal stability.

  • It makes the airplane uncontrollable in pitch

    A forward CG is more stable, not uncontrollable, within limits.

Why

A forward center of gravity increases longitudinal stability but requires greater elevator force, whereas an aft CG reduces stability and can become dangerous.

FAA source: PHAK Ch. 5browse the reference library →

Original study question written for this course — representative of FAA knowledge-test topics, not an actual current FAA exam question.

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