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Performance and weight and balanceQuestion 697 of 934

Where is the CG usually located in relation to the center of lift, and what is the effect?

  1. Far aft of the center of lift, for better stability
  2. Slightly aft of the center of lift, so it tends to pitch nose up
  3. At the center of lift, which gives no pitching moment
  4. Slightly forward of the center of lift, so it pitches nose down
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Correct answer: Slightly forward of the center of lift, so it pitches nose down

The nose-down tendency is desirable during flight at a high AOA and slow speeds.

Source: Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25C), Chapter 10: Weight and Balance — Principles of Weight and Balance Computations, page 250

Practice performance and weight and balance

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026