Master Mass & Balance for your ATPL theory exam
Free practice questions covering CG calculation, MTOM/MZFM/MLM limits, moment and arm, load sheets, CG envelope interpretation and trim effects — with detailed explanations for every answer.
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Topics covered in this question bank
All major Mass and Balance topic areas from the EASA ATPL syllabus, including calculation methods, mass limits and CG envelope analysis.
The centre of gravity formula and how to apply it
Every Mass and Balance calculation uses the same fundamental method. Knowing this process is essential — many exam questions require you to calculate CG step by step.
CG Position Formula
CG = Total Moment ÷ Total Mass Where Total Moment = Σ (Mass × Arm) for every item loadedCG Shift Formula (after loading/unloading)
CG shift = (Change in Moment) ÷ (New Total Mass) Use when adding or removing a single item without recalculating everythingThe aircraft's mass limits and their governing factors are also directly tested:
| Mass Limit | Full Name | Limiting Factor |
|---|---|---|
| MTOM | Maximum Take-Off Mass | Structural & performance limits at take-off |
| MLM | Maximum Landing Mass | Undercarriage & structural strength on landing |
| MZFM | Maximum Zero Fuel Mass | Wing root bending moment (without fuel) |
| MTXM | Maximum Taxi Mass | Fuel burn before take-off; MTXM ≥ MTOM |
What to expect on the real exam
Mass and Balance contains both calculation questions (CG position, CG shift, mass limit checks) and conceptual questions (effects of aft CG, wing root bending, fuel burn CG shift direction). Practice both types — many candidates lose marks on the conceptual questions after focusing only on calculations.
Why Mass and Balance is a flight safety subject
Incorrect loading is a cause of accidents across all aircraft categories. An aircraft that exceeds MZFM may suffer structural failure in turbulence. An aircraft with CG beyond the aft limit may become uncontrollable. Loading within limits is a non-negotiable legal and safety requirement on every flight.
Questions are aligned with the EASA ATPL syllabus and cover the full range from basic mass definitions through to multi-item CG calculations, fuel burn shift analysis and load sheet interpretation.
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