What is the importance of the aircraft's center of gravity (CG)?

The aircraft's center of gravity (CG) is crucial because it significantly influences stability, control, and performance during flight. The CG is the point where the weight of the aircraft is balanced, and its location can affect how the aircraft responds to control inputs and environmental factors.

When the CG is in the correct position, the aircraft will behave predictably, making it easier for pilots to control during various flight phases, such as takeoff, cruising, maneuvering, and landing. A CG that is too far forward can result in heavy nose behavior, requiring more force to lift the nose and resulting in increased drag. Conversely, a CG positioned too far aft can lead to instability, making the aircraft prone to uncontrollable maneuvers.

Moreover, the position of the CG impacts the aircraft's performance characteristics, including climb rate, stall speed, and maneuverability. For optimal aircraft handling and safety, pilots and engineers must ensure that the CG remains within prescribed limits throughout the flight.

In contrast, asserting that CG has no effect on operations, only influences fuel efficiency, or is only relevant during takeoff fails to recognize its essential role in overall aircraft dynamics and safety.