Definition
A loading condition in which the airplane's center of gravity is located near the forward limit of its approved CG range. Within limits, a forward CG increases longitudinal stability, raises stall speed, increases cruise drag, and requires greater elevator authority to raise the nose during takeoff, landing flare, and stall recovery.
Plain English
The airplane is loaded so that the balance point sits toward the front of the allowed range. This makes it more stable but harder to lift the nose, and it slightly reduces performance.
Context Anchor
Used during weight and balance planning, especially when loading front-seat passengers, baggage, fuel, or equipment.
Derivation
Forward means toward the front. CG means center of gravity, the point where the airplane would balance if it could be supported at one spot. Together, forward CG means that balance point has shifted toward the front of the airplane.
Why Pilots Care
Forward CG increases longitudinal stability but raises control forces, stall speed, and the speed required for rotation.
Analogy
It is like a seesaw with more weight near one end. The balance point moves toward the heavier end, and lifting that end takes more effort.
Intuition Check
Forward does not mean the airplane is moving forward. Here it means the airplane’s balance point is located closer to the nose.
Example Sentence 1
With only the pilot up front and baggage in the nose locker, the airplane was loaded near its forward CG, so I expected a heavier feel on the controls during the flare.
Example Sentence 2
The weight-and-balance sheet showed a forward CG that raised the calculated rotation speed by several knots.