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A pilot has finished the pre-planning. Shortly before departure an additional container with a mass of 3000 kg of traffic load is accepted. The pilot forgets to calculate the new performance values of the aircraft. Take-off and climb is accomplished without any problems. How will the performance of the aircraft due to the additional mass be affected?

  • A

    Angle of climb and obstacle clearance will be improved.

  • B

    Fuel flow and endurance will be reduced.

  • C

    Rate of climb and range will be decreased.

  • D

    Fuel flow and specific range will be increased.

​​​​​​In this scenario the aircraft weighs 3000 kg more than planned. Despite a safe take-off and climb, the performance of the aircraft will be affected, compared to the expected situation at the lighter weight. The effects of a heavier aircraft include:

  • Higher stalling speed
  • Increased fuel consumption
  • Reduced range and endurance
  • Reduced climb performance, both rate & gradient of climb

Looking at the answers:

'Angle of climb and obstacle clearance will be improved' --> INCORRECT. Both of these will reduce with the extra weight on board.

'Fuel flow and endurance will be reduced' --> INCORRECT. Endurance will reduce but the fuel flow will increase. The extra weight will require more lift, which creates more drag = more thrust = more fuel burn...

'Rate of climb and range will be decreased' --> CORRECT. As shown above.

'Fuel flow and specific range will be increased' --> INCORRECT. Fuel flow will increase but the range will reduce due to the extra weight being carried on board.

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