How does an aircraft's center of gravity influence its flight with an engine out?

The center of gravity (CG) is a critical factor in an aircraft's performance, especially during a single-engine failure scenario. If an engine fails, the aircraft tends to yaw toward the inoperative engine due to asymmetrical thrust. The location of the CG plays a pivotal role in how the aircraft responds to this yawing motion.

When the CG is positioned within the aircraft's designed limits, it helps maintain balance and stability during flight. If the CG is too far forward or aft, it can lead to undesirable flight characteristics, making the aircraft more challenging to control. For instance, a forward CG may require more nose-up trim for level flight, while an aft CG can lead to reduced pitch stability.

In a multi-engine aircraft, having a CG that is well-aligned helps the pilot make necessary adjustments to counteract the effects of an engine failure, ensuring that the aircraft can maintain controlled flight. Therefore, the influence of the center of gravity is crucial as it directly affects stability and control in such situations, reinforcing the importance of proper load distribution and weight management in flight operations.