Definition
The range of center of gravity (CG) positions, measured along the aircraft's longitudinal axis, within which the aircraft must be balanced for safe flight. The forward and aft limits of this range are established by the manufacturer and published in the aircraft's Type Certificate Data Sheet and weight and balance documents. The CG must remain within this range throughout all phases of flight, including after fuel burn and any in-flight movement of people or cargo.
Plain English
The allowable area, between a forward limit and an aft limit, where the aircraft's balance point is permitted to sit. As long as the loaded aircraft balances somewhere inside that area, it will handle safely.
Context Anchor
Seen in aircraft weight-and-balance records, loading calculations, maintenance documents, and aircraft specifications.
Derivation
"Center of gravity" is the point where the aircraft's weight is balanced. "Operating range" means the span of values that are allowed during normal use. Together, the phrase describes the allowable span of balance points for flight operations.
Why Pilots Care
Loading outside these limits can cause loss of control, reduced stability, or inability to recover from stalls or spins.
Analogy
Think of balancing a ruler on your finger. There is a small area where it balances well; too far one way or the other, and it tips. An aircraft also has an approved balance zone.
Grounding Statement
Before flight, the loaded aircraft’s balance point must fall between the forward and rear limits approved for that aircraft.
Intuition Check
Do not read “range” as a rough estimate or a preferred area. Here it means approved limits: inside the range is allowed; outside the range is not allowed.
Example Sentence 1
After loading the baggage and passengers, the technician confirmed the aircraft's CG fell within the operating center of gravity range published in the weight and balance documents.
Example Sentence 2
An aft shift from passenger movement pushed the center of gravity beyond the operating center of gravity range, requiring immediate correction.