As an aviation expert with extensive knowledge in the field, I am well-versed in the specifications of various aircraft, including the Cessna 172. The Cessna 172 is a popular single-engine four-seat light aircraft that has been widely used for general aviation purposes such as flight training, personal transportation, and even aerial observation.

When discussing the weight capacity of an aircraft like the Cessna 172, it is essential to understand the different weight categories that are relevant to its operation. These include:


1. Gross Weight: This is the maximum weight that the aircraft is certified to carry, including the weight of the aircraft itself, passengers, fuel, and baggage. For the Cessna 172, the gross weight typically ranges from 2,450 to 2,550 pounds, depending on the specific model and modifications.


2. Useful Load: This is the weight remaining after subtracting the aircraft's empty weight (the weight of the aircraft without any fuel, passengers, or baggage) from the gross weight. The useful load can be further divided into:
- Payload: The weight of passengers and baggage.
- Fuel Load: The weight of the fuel carried by the aircraft.


3. Empty Weight: The weight of the aircraft without any fuel, passengers, or baggage. This can vary based on the configuration and equipment installed.


4. Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW): The maximum weight at which the aircraft is allowed to take off. This is the same as the gross weight.


5. Maximum Landing Weight: The maximum weight at which the aircraft is allowed to land, which is typically less than the MTOW due to structural and braking considerations.

Now, let's analyze the scenario you've provided. According to the information given, the pilot's weight along with three passengers weighing 170 pounds each amounts to 680 pounds. Adding 40 pounds for baggage results in a total payload of 720 pounds. If we assume a Cessna 172 with a gross weight of 2,500 pounds, subtracting the empty weight (let's assume it's around 1,000 pounds for this example) from the gross weight gives us a useful load of 1,500 pounds. Subtracting the 720 pounds of payload from this useful load leaves us with 780 pounds for fuel.

However, the example concludes that the total weight would be 2,460 pounds, which is 160 pounds over the allowable weight. This suggests that there might be a misunderstanding or miscalculation in the scenario. If the gross weight is indeed 2,500 pounds, and the empty weight is approximately 1,000 pounds, then the maximum payload (including passengers, baggage, and fuel) should not exceed 1,500 pounds.

It is crucial for pilots and operators to always ensure that the aircraft's weight and balance are within the certified limits to ensure safe and efficient operation. Overloading an aircraft can lead to performance issues and increased risk of accidents.

In summary, the Cessna 172 can carry a significant payload, but it is imperative to adhere to the aircraft's weight limitations and to calculate the weight and balance accurately before each flight.

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The pilot's weight and the weight of three 170-pound passengers is 680 pounds. Let's put 40 pounds in the baggage compartment. This results in a total weight of 2,460 pounds or 160 pounds over the allowable weight. Now they know that they can't carry three passengers with full fuel and some baggage in this Cessna 172.read more >>