What role does the center of gravity play in flight stability?

The center of gravity is a crucial factor in flight stability because it determines how the weight of the aircraft is distributed in relation to its aerodynamic center. The stability of an aircraft is largely dependent on maintaining this balance. When the center of gravity is correctly positioned, the aircraft can maintain control throughout various maneuvers and during turbulent conditions. A properly balanced aircraft will respond predictably to control inputs, ensuring smooth flight operations.

If the center of gravity is too far forward or too far aft, it can lead to undesirable flight characteristics, such as increased control inputs required for maneuvering, difficulty in recovering from stalls, or even an inability to maintain level flight. This balance directly affects the pitch stability of the aircraft, making the location of the center of gravity one of the most important considerations in aircraft design and operation.