If an aircraft’s center of gravity (CG) is too far rearward, what type of instability will it exhibit?

When an aircraft's center of gravity (CG) is positioned too far rearward, it will exhibit lateral instability. This scenario occurs because a rearward CG affects the aircraft's ability to maintain a level flight attitude. In this configuration, the aircraft is more sensitive to side-to-side (lateral) movements, making it difficult for the pilot to control roll or yaw effectively.

A rearward CG can lead to an increased tendency to roll in response to turbulence or handling inputs, which can cause the aircraft to oscillate laterally rather than return to a stable flight path. This characteristic can create challenges in maintaining coordinated flight and can result in a condition known as "overcontrolling," where the aircraft responds too readily to pilot inputs.

Understanding the implications of CG placement is crucial for aircraft stability and control, as it directly impacts flight characteristics and the ability to manage the aircraft's behavior in various flight scenarios. Proper CG positioning enhances stable flight, whereas an excessively rearward CG introduces lateral instability, making a sound grasp of these principles essential for safe flight operations.