What is the purpose of permanent ballast?

• A. It increases the aircraft's weight but not CG.
• B. It is used to bring EWCG into allowable limits.
• C. It reduces fuel efficiency.
• D. It is removed before flight.

Answer: (B)

Permanent ballast is added to position the aircraft’s empty weight center of gravity within the approved limits. The empty weight CG is the balance point when the aircraft is empty, and various tolerances, equipment, or modifications can shift that point away from the certified position. By installing ballast at a designated, fixed location, the EWCG is moved into the allowable range, ensuring the airplane remains stable and controllable across typical loading scenarios. This ballast is meant to stay in place for the life of the aircraft, so it’s not removed before flight. While ballast does affect overall weight and can influence performance a bit, its primary purpose is to guarantee the CG stays within certified limits.