What are the effects of a center of gravity that is too far aft?

When the center of gravity (CG) of an aircraft is located too far aft, it significantly impacts the aircraft's handling characteristics. One of the primary effects is the difficulty in recovering from a stall. Aft CG tends to reduce the stability of the aircraft, making it more prone to entering a stall condition. Because the aircraft's nose is positioned higher relative to its wings, it loses lift at slower speeds more quickly. Additionally, when a stall occurs, the recovery may require more aggressive control inputs, which can be challenging. Pilots may find that they cannot effectively pitch the nose down to regain control and reestablish airflow over the wings, leading to a potential loss of control.

This situation does not enhance stability; rather, it makes the aircraft more sensitive to control inputs and can result in a lack of predictability in flying characteristics. Similarly, an aft CG does not contribute to shorter takeoff rolls or higher stall speeds; in fact, it may lead to longer takeoff distances due to an increased risk of stalling during the critical phases of flight. Overall, understanding the impacts of the center of gravity on aircraft performance is crucial for safe and effective aircraft operation.