What is the purpose of conducting a weight and balance check before a flight?

Conducting a weight and balance check before a flight is crucial for ensuring aircraft stability and performance. This process involves assessing the distribution of weight within the aircraft to confirm that it remains within safe operational limits. Proper weight and balance are essential to maintain the center of gravity within specified parameters; if the center of gravity is too far forward or aft, it can adversely affect the aircraft’s handling characteristics, such as stability, control, and overall safety during flight.

When the aircraft is properly loaded, it is able to achieve optimal performance in terms of climb rate, fuel efficiency, and maneuverability. This check also helps prevent potential issues related to structural integrity and control surface effectiveness. Therefore, the primary focus of the weight and balance check is to ensure that the aircraft's performance remains within safe limits, allowing for a safe and efficient flight operation.