Which characteristic is associated with an airplane loaded at the aft CG limit?

When an airplane is loaded at the aft center of gravity (CG) limit, it exhibits some specific flying characteristics that influence its performance and stability. The correct answer highlights that such a loading condition is associated with the lowest stall speed, the highest cruise speed, and the least stability.

When the CG is positioned further aft, the pitching moment produced by the wings changes, which results in a decrease in the angle of attack necessary to maintain level flight at slower speeds. This reduction in angle of attack leads to a lower stall speed because the aircraft can maintain controllable flight at lower airspeeds before reaching the critical angle of attack. Conversely, when cruising at higher speeds, an aft-loaded aircraft can achieve a higher cruise speed because it requires less control surface deflection to maintain level flight, reducing drag.

However, one of the significant implications of having the CG too far aft is decreased stability. An aircraft with an aft CG is generally harder to control, particularly in pitch, which means requiring more pilot input to maintain stability in flight. This condition can make the airplane more susceptible to abrupt changes in attitude and can reduce the overall margin of safety.

Other options do present different characteristics that are typically not associated with an airplane loaded at the aft CG limit, for example