Question 20
Domain 5: FAA Part 107 LoadingWhat effect does adding external equipment (such as a camera gimbal) below the aircraft have on weight and balance?
Correct answer: B
Explanation
Adding equipment below the aircraft places more mass beneath the center of gravity, so the aircraft’s center of gravity moves downward. A lower center of gravity generally increases stability because the aircraft resists rolling and pitching disturbances more strongly.
Why each option is right or wrong
A. It only affects total weight, not balance
B. It lowers the center of gravity, which generally improves stability
Placing additional mass below the aircraft’s existing center of gravity creates a downward moment, so the combined center of gravity shifts lower relative to the airframe. In weight-and-balance terms, a lower CG generally increases static stability because the aircraft has a greater restoring tendency after a disturbance, especially in roll and pitch.
C. It raises the center of gravity, potentially reducing stability
D. It has no effect as long as total weight remains under 55 pounds