Performance and weight and balanceQuestion 678 of 934

What can cause a lateral unbalance in an airplane?

  1. Using fuel from one wing tank only
  2. Placing baggage on the center line
  3. Carrying passengers in the front seats only
  4. Burning fuel evenly from both tanks
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Correct answer: Using fuel from one wing tank only

The pilot can offset the wing-heavy condition with trim or control pressure, but this adds drag.

Source: Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25C), Chapter 10: Weight and Balance — Effects of Adverse Balance, page 247

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Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026