An airplane's load?

Question

How can you determined on how much an airplane can hold in it's cargo?

Answer 1

It based on the wing loading. The amount of wing surface and power generated by the jet/propeller powerplant determine the amount of weight (load) the aircraft can lift.

So, say you have a Cessna that at 100mph can lift a max weight of 2000 lbs and has 100 square feet of wing surface. The weight you can carry would be 20lbs per sq ft.

Answer 2

The Pilot’s

Operating Handbook, (POH) is developed by the airplane manufacturer

and generally contains the FAA-approved Airplane

Flight Manual (AFM) information.

It includes weight and balance calculation information. Prior to flight, the pilot is required to verify the weight and the balance of the aircraft is within the published operating limitations.

There are actually 3 limitations on the cargo:

1. If must fit in the airplane. For example, a USAF plane, the C-141 Starlifter had a small fuselage and typically was full before its weight maxed out. They finally extended the fuselage to increase capacity.

2. Weight. The takeoff and landing weight of the fueled aircraft ready for take off and landing at the earliest possible time must not be exceeded. This is generally the greatest limitation.

3. Balance. The weight on the aircraft must be distributed so that the plane is within the design envelope.

Answer 3

read the FAA certification.