Plain English Meaning
How much the airplane weighs once everything and everyone is on board, including fuel.
Full Definition
The total weight of the aircraft and its contents at a given moment, including the empty aircraft, usable fuel, oil, pilot, passengers, baggage, and any cargo. Loaded weight is used in weight and balance calculations to confirm the aircraft is within approved limits before flight.
Context Anchor
Used in weight-and-balance calculations before flight to find the aircraft’s total weight and balance point.
Why Pilots Care
An aircraft loaded above its approved weight may not climb properly, may handle poorly, and may exceed structural limits. Calculating loaded weight before each flight confirms the aircraft is legal and safe to fly.