Definition
The forward and rearward boundaries within which the aircraft's center of gravity (CG) must remain for safe flight. The forward limit is the most nose-ward CG location allowed; the aft limit is the most tail-ward CG location allowed. These limits are set by the manufacturer and published in the aircraft's Type Certificate Data Sheet and Pilot's Operating Handbook.
Plain English
The front and back boundaries that mark how far forward or how far back the aircraft's balance point is allowed to be. As long as the balance point stays between these two boundaries, the aircraft will handle properly.
Context Anchor
Seen in weight and balance calculations, especially when checking whether loading people, baggage, and fuel keeps the aircraft within its approved balance range.
Derivation
Fore' is an old English word for 'in front of' (as in the front of a ship). 'Aft' comes from Old English 'æftan' meaning 'behind' or 'toward the rear.' Both terms come from sailing and are still used in aviation to describe forward and rearward positions on the aircraft.
Why Pilots Care
Staying within these limits ensures the aircraft remains stable and controllable in all phases of flight.
Analogy
Think of balancing a ruler on your finger. There is a small range where it balances well; too far one way or the other, and it tips. Fore and aft limits are the airplane’s approved balance range from front to back.
Intuition Check
Do not read “limits” as a suggestion or comfort range. Here, fore and aft limits are approved boundaries: the aircraft must be loaded so its balance point stays inside them.
Example Sentence 1
After running the weight and balance, the pilot confirmed the loaded CG was within the fore and aft limits published in the POH.
Example Sentence 2
Loading too much weight in the rear can push the center of gravity beyond the aft fore and aft limit.