Basic Weight

“Basic weight” in the context of aircraft refers to the total weight of the aircraft structure and essential components, excluding any operational equipment or payload. It includes:

1. Airframe Structure: This includes the weight of the wings, fuselage (body), tail unit (empennage), and landing gear.
2. Propulsion System: The weight of the engines (if applicable) and their associated components, such as nacelles and mounts.
3. Airframe Services and Equipment: This category encompasses all necessary systems and equipment within the airframe, including mechanical systems, avionics (electronic equipment), fuel tanks, fuel pipes, and other essential services required for flight.
4. Residual Oil and Undrainable Fuel: This accounts for any oil that remains in the engine or system after draining and undrainable fuel that cannot be removed from the aircraft tanks.

Excluded from the basic weight calculation are items such as operational equipment (e.g., passenger seats, in-flight entertainment systems), cargo, or any payload that the aircraft may carry during operation.

The basic weight is a critical parameter used in aircraft performance calculations, such as determining center of gravity, maximum takeoff weight, and fuel requirements. It forms the foundation for further weight calculations and loading considerations in aircraft operations and maintenance.