What is started for a new aircraft when empty weight and empty weight center of gravity are determined if no weight and balance records exist?

• A. New weight and balance records started for the aircraft.
• B. The old records are overwritten.
• C. The data is sent to the manufacturer.
• D. No records are needed.

Answer: (A)

Establishing a baseline weight and balance is essential when there are no existing records. For a new aircraft, you must determine the empty weight and the empty weight center of gravity to create initial weight-and-balance data. This is typically done by weighing the aircraft on scales with standard equipment and fluids installed, but without payload or usable fuel, to identify the basic empty weight and its CG. Once those figures are known, new weight-and-balance records are started and filed. These records serve as the reference point for calculating the moment and arm of any future loading, ensuring the aircraft remains within weight and CG limits. There’s nothing to overwrite since there are no prior records, and you don’t need to send data to the manufacturer; and yes, records are needed even for a brand-new aircraft.