What are potential consequences of operating outside approved weight and balance limits?

Operating outside of approved weight and balance limits can significantly affect the safety and performance of an aircraft. When an aircraft is overloaded or improperly balanced, the weight distribution can shift, leading to a decrease in overall performance. This situation often results in a higher stall speed and a reduced margin of safety, making it more challenging for the pilot to control the aircraft.

An overloaded aircraft will typically require a longer distance to take off and land, may struggle to climb, and can experience reduced maneuverability. Moreover, flying with an improper center of gravity can lead to undesirable handling characteristics, such as a tendency to stall at higher speeds and reduced control effectiveness. These factors combine to increase the risk of an accident and complicate the pilot's ability to operate the aircraft safely.

In contrast, operating within the approved limits typically maintains optimal performance, stability, and control of the aircraft, enabling safer flight operations.