Does the Weight and Balance report need to be on board for every flight?

The requirement for the Weight and Balance report to be on board for every flight is based on safety principles in aviation. Ensuring that the aircraft remains within its specified weight limits and that weight is properly distributed is critical for maintaining control and performance during flight. The Weight and Balance report provides essential information to pilots, helping them verify that the aircraft is properly loaded and balanced before takeoff.

Carrying this report is essential for proper pre-flight planning, allowing pilots to assess factors such as fuel load, passenger weight, and cargo distribution. If the aircraft is overloaded or not within center of gravity limits, it can result in poor handling characteristics and increase the risk of accidents. Having the report on board ensures that the pilot can refer to it and make informed decisions during the flight.

In contrast, the idea that it can be kept at home or only needed for longer or training flights underestimates the importance of adhering to weight and balance regulations for every flight operation. Every aircraft operates under specific weight limitations that must be respected at all times, regardless of the flight's purpose or duration. Thus, the inherent safety considerations justify why the Weight and Balance report is required to be present on each flight.