Helicopter Weight & Balance Calculator
Compute helicopter weight, moment, and longitudinal CG against the Pilot Operating Handbook (POH) envelope. Defaults are loosely modeled on a Robinson R44 Raven II for illustration - adjust empty weight, empty arm, max gross weight, and CG limits to match your specific aircraft from its POH.
Calculator inputs and results
Aircraft envelope (from POH)
Loading
Estimate only. Always cross-check against the aircraft Pilot Operating Handbook (POH) loading chart. Fuel arm and weight can change with fuel state - use the current arm from your POH if it publishes one. Source for compliance: 14 CFR 91.9.
How this calculator works
Total weight is the sum of empty weight plus every load item (pilot, passengers, cargo, fuel). Total moment is the sum of each item's weight multiplied by its arm (distance from the helicopter's longitudinal reference datum). CG (center of gravity) is total moment divided by total weight.
Compliance basis: 14 CFR 91.9 requires operation in accordance with the operating limitations specified in the FAA-approved Rotorcraft Flight Manual. POH weight and balance limits ARE the operating limitations - exceeding them is a regulatory violation regardless of whether the helicopter performs.
Helicopters have both fore-and-aft and lateral CG limits. This calculator computes longitudinal CG only. For lateral CG (especially relevant on multi-engine helicopters and on installs with offset external loads), always consult the POH lateral balance chart.
Default assumptions & sources
Every default value the calculator starts with, the realistic range you'd see in the field, and the source we used to set it.
| Input | Default | Typical range | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Empty weight | 1,505 lb | POH-defined | Aircraft POH - varies by serial number, equipment, last weighing |
| Empty arm | 106.7 in | POH-defined | Aircraft POH |
| Max gross weight | 2,500 lb | POH-defined | Aircraft POH |
| Fwd CG limit | 99.0 in | POH-defined | Aircraft POH weight & balance section |
| Aft CG limit | 110.0 in | POH-defined | Aircraft POH weight & balance section |
| Fuel density | 6.0 lb/gal | fixed (avgas 100LL) | FAA standard for 100LL; Jet A is 6.7 lb/gal at standard temperature |
What's not modeled
The calculator covers the major cost and time line items. These additional factors apply in some cases but aren't included in the estimate:
- Lateral CG (left/right) - many helicopters have published lateral limits, especially during external load operations
- Variable fuel arm - some POHs publish fuel arm as a function of fuel quantity
- External load weight + sling rigging - external load changes weight and moment dramatically
- Fuel state during flight - CG shifts as fuel burns
- Multiple passenger seating positions per row - use combined weight + average arm
Frequently asked questions
Does this calculator work for any helicopter?
Yes - the formulas (total weight = sum of weights, CG = total moment / total weight) are universal. Replace the empty weight, empty arm, max gross weight, and CG limits with values from your aircraft's POH. Defaults are illustrative only.
#Why does my helicopter need a weight & balance check before every flight?
14 CFR 91.103 requires the pilot in command to become familiar with all available information concerning the flight, including takeoff and landing distance. 14 CFR 91.9 requires operation within the limitations of the POH. Weight & balance is a core element of both.
#What happens if I fly outside the CG envelope?
Operating outside the published CG envelope is a regulatory violation (14 CFR 91.9) and a safety hazard. CG forward of limits typically degrades control authority during high-power maneuvers. CG aft of limits can cause control reversal and loss of pitch control - especially during autorotation.
#How accurate is the default Robinson R44 data in this calculator?
Defaults are loosely based on R44 Raven II type data and are illustrative only. Individual R44 aircraft have variable empty weights and arms depending on equipment installs and the most recent weighing. Always use the actual numbers from your specific aircraft's POH and weight & balance documentation.
#Related guides & tools
This calculator provides estimates only. Actual aircraft performance and regulatory compliance vary by specific aircraft serial number, density altitude, gross weight, equipment installations, and operator's FAA-approved General Operations Manual / OpSpec. Always verify with primary sources: the FAA (faa.gov), 14 CFR (eCFR at ecfr.gov), your aircraft Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM) or Pilot Operating Handbook (POH), the relevant FAA Advisory Circular, and NTSB safety studies for the operational profile.