iii Preface The Aircraft Weight and Balance Handbook has been prepared in recognition of the importance of weight and balance  technology in conducting safe and efficient flight. The objective of this handbook is twofold: to provide the airframe and  powerplant mechanic (A&P) with the method of determining the empty weight and empty weight center of gravity (EWCG)  of an aircraft and to furnish the flight crew with information on loading and operating the aircraft to ensure its weight is  within the allowable limit and the center of gravity (CG) is within the allowable range. Any time there is a conflict between the information in this handbook and specific information issued by an aircraft  manufacturer, the manufacturer’s data takes precedence over information in this handbook. Occasionally, the word “must”  or similar language is used where the desired action is deemed critical. The use of such language is not intended to add to,  interpret, or relieve a duty imposed by Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR).  It is essential for persons using this handbook to become familiar with and apply the pertinent parts of 14 CFR. The current  Flight Standards Service airman training and testing material and learning statements for all airman certificates and ratings  can be obtained from www.faa.gov. This handbook supersedes FAA-H-8083-1A, Aircraft Weight and Balance Handbook, dated 2007.  This handbook is available for download, in PDF format, from www.faa.gov. This handbook is published by the United States Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation Administration, Airman  Testing Standards Branch, AFS-630, P.O. Box 25082, Oklahoma City, OK 73125. Comments regarding this publication should be sent, in email form, to the following address: AFS630comments@faa.gov. John S. Duncan Director, Flight Standards Service