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Cessna 172 Weight and Balance Calculator
Calculate CG, moment, and verify your C172 is within safe operating limits
✈️ Standard Cessna 172 (N, P, R, S models) • Empty weight includes 6 qts oil @ -14.0" arm • Gross weight limit: 2,550 lbs (varies by model)
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Center of Gravity (inches aft of datum)
⚖️ Calculating...
0 lbs
Gross Weight
0 in-lb
Total Moment
35.0 in
Forward CG Limit
47.3 in
Aft CG Limit
| Item | Weight (lbs) | Arm (in) | Moment (in-lb) |
|---|
⚠️ Important — This calculator is for educational purposes. Always use the official POH for your specific aircraft. You, as pilot in command, are solely responsible for correct loading.
Calculate your C172 weight and balance — fast, free, no signup
What is Weight and Balance?
Weight and balance is a critical pre-flight calculation that ensures your aircraft is loaded within safe limits. The center of gravity (CG) must fall within the approved envelope for stable flight characteristics. This calculator helps you verify your Cessna 172 loading before takeoff.
Understanding the Numbers
- Empty Weight — Weight of the aircraft with standard equipment, unusable fuel, and full oil.
- Arm — Distance from the datum (reference point) to the center of gravity of an item.
- Moment — Weight × Arm. The rotational force around the datum.
- CG Position — Total Moment ÷ Total Weight. Must be within forward and aft limits.
Cessna 172 Standard Limits (Typical)
- Max Gross Weight: 2,550 lbs (model dependent)
- CG Range: Forward limit 35.0 in, Aft limit 47.3 in (varies by weight)
- Fuel Capacity: 56 gallons total (53 usable in most models)
- Baggage Area 1: Max 120 lbs, Arm ~95 in
- Baggage Area 2: Max 50 lbs, Arm ~123 in
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter your aircraft's empty weight and arm from the POH
- Add pilot, passenger, and rear seat weights with their approximate arms
- Enter baggage weights for each area (max limits apply)
- Specify fuel in gallons (6 lbs per gallon)
- Click "Calculate" to see total weight, CG, and visual CG envelope
Weight per Gallon of Avgas
100LL Avgas weighs approximately 6.0 lbs per gallon. The calculator uses this standard conversion.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the CG envelope? — The range of allowable CG positions for safe flight. Exceeding forward or aft limits can cause control issues.
- Where do I find empty weight data? — In your aircraft's POH (Pilot's Operating Handbook) or weight and balance records.
- What are typical seat arms? — Front seats ~37.5 in, Rear seats ~73.0 in, but verify with your POH.
- Does oil count in empty weight? — Yes, standard empty weight includes full oil (6 quarts).
- What if my CG is outside limits? — Reload the aircraft by moving passengers, baggage, or reducing fuel to bring CG within limits.