PLT240: Center of Gravity and Flight Characteristics
What code PLT240 covers, why the FAA tests it, and how to study Center of Gravity and Flight Characteristics before your checkride.
Recall forces acting on aircraft - CG / flight characteristics
What this means for your checkride
Where the center of gravity sits along the longitudinal axis changes how the airplane flies. A forward CG makes it more stable but heavier in pitch and raises stall speed; an aft CG makes it less stable and less recoverable from a stall but lighter in pitch. The CG must stay between the forward and aft limits.
CG position changes stability, control authority, and stall behavior, so the FAA tests how a forward or aft CG affects flight characteristics, not just whether the airplane is under gross weight.
Being under maximum weight does not mean the loading is safe. An aft CG within weight limits still reduces stability and stall recovery, so CG position must be checked, not just total weight.
Where to study it
A code on your test report is an area of deficiency. An authorized instructor must review it with you and endorse that review before you take the practical test, and the examiner may revisit it during the oral. Study it until you can explain it out loud, not just recognize the answer.