During a spin, what condition affects recovery difficulty significantly in small airplanes?

In the context of spin recovery in small airplanes, the position of the center of gravity plays a crucial role. If the center of gravity is too far rearward, it can lead to an increased difficulty in recovering from a spin. This rearward position affects the aircraft’s stability and control, making it more prone to developing and maintaining a spin.

When the center of gravity is located toward the tail of the aircraft, it creates a condition where the nose may tend to drop more sharply during a spin. This exacerbates the spin dynamics, as the airplane may have an increased tendency to enter steep spins. Additionally, control surface effectiveness can be diminished, which makes it challenging for the pilot to apply the necessary corrective inputs to facilitate recovery.

Thus, having a rearward center of gravity not only increases the likelihood of entering a spin but also complicates the recovery process, making it more hazardous for pilots operating small aircraft. Keeping the center of gravity within the specified limits is critical for ensuring predictable handling characteristics, especially during critical flight conditions like spins.