Why must pilots perform weight and balance checks?

Pilots must perform weight and balance checks primarily to ensure safety and performance. The weight and balance of an aircraft can significantly affect its handling characteristics, flight performance, and overall safety. If an aircraft is loaded improperly or exceeds its maximum weight limits, it can lead to issues such as decreased climb performance, difficulty in controlling the aircraft, and increased stall speeds.

By conducting thorough weight and balance calculations before flight, pilots ensure that the aircraft is within safe operating limits. This practice helps to maintain the center of gravity within specified parameters, which is crucial for the stability and control of the aircraft throughout various phases of flight. Overall, these checks are fundamental to flight safety and are essential for optimal operational performance.

While enhancing fuel management, meeting regulatory standards, and optimizing flight speed are important considerations, they are secondary outcomes of a robust weight and balance process, which first and foremost prioritizes the safety of the flight.