Definition
The distance, expressed in inches from the datum, between the forward and aft center-of-gravity (CG) limits within which an airplane must be loaded for safe and controllable flight. The forward and aft limits are established by the manufacturer and published in the Pilot's Operating Handbook or Airplane Flight Manual.
Plain English
The allowed front-to-back range where the airplane's balance point can sit. As long as the loaded airplane balances somewhere inside this range, it will fly and handle correctly.
Context Anchor
Seen during weight-and-balance planning, especially when checking the airplane’s handbook before flight.
Derivation
Center of gravity' is the single point where the airplane's weight is considered to act -- its balance point. 'Range' here means the span between two limits, not a distance flown. So the term simply means 'the allowable span for the balance point.'
Why Pilots Care
Staying inside this range keeps the airplane stable and responsive; going outside it can produce uncontrollable pitch or loss of control.
Intuition Check
Do not think of the center of gravity as one fixed spot that is always acceptable. For each loaded flight, the balance point must fall inside the approved forward-to-rear range.
Example Sentence 1
After adding the passengers and baggage, the pilot confirmed the loaded CG fell within the center-of-gravity range published for that airplane.
Example Sentence 2
An aft shift from fuel burn moved the center-of-gravity range close to the rear limit, requiring careful monitoring during the flight.