How can one determine the actual Basic Empty Weight and Gross Weight for a flight test aircraft?

The actual Basic Empty Weight and Gross Weight for a flight test aircraft can be accurately determined by checking the weight and balance report. This report is a crucial document that provides detailed information about the aircraft's weight configuration, including the Basic Empty Weight, which is the weight of the aircraft with all its standard equipment, unusable fuel, and full engine oil.

The weight and balance report also shows the maximum Gross Weight, which is the maximum permissible weight for safe flight. This document is typically prepared by the aircraft manufacturer and updated whenever modifications or changes to the aircraft occur, ensuring that the data reflects the current specifications and configurations.

Estimates based on previous flights may not provide an accurate representation of the aircraft's current weight, as variations can occur due to changes in equipment or modifications. Contacting the manufacturer may be helpful for certain details, but it typically does not provide the specific weight configuration that has been stipulated in the weight and balance report. Inspecting fuel levels gives insights into the weight of fuel being carried but does not account for the overall weight configuration needed to determine the aircraft's Basic Empty Weight or Gross Weight accurately.