What does CG stand for in aviation context?

In aviation, CG stands for Center of Gravity, which is a crucial concept in the field of aerodynamics and aircraft stability. The center of gravity is the specific point where the total weight of the aircraft is considered to be concentrated. It plays a vital role in determining the aircraft's balance and stability.

When the center of gravity is located within certain limits—usually near the center of the aircraft and along the longitudinal axis—it helps ensure that the aircraft can maintain controlled flight. If the CG is too far forward or too far aft, it can lead to handling difficulties, such as a tendency to pitch up or down excessively, which can compromise safety and flight performance.

Understanding the center of gravity is essential for pilots when loading an aircraft, as improper loading can shift the CG outside of acceptable limits and affect performance, control, and safety. Therefore, the concept of CG is central to flight planning and weight-and-balance calculations.