Which factor is NOT part of assessing weight and balance during flight planning?

When assessing weight and balance during flight planning, one of the key factors is the distribution of weight within the aircraft, which includes the payload already onboard. This encompasses both the weight of passengers and cargo and how these items are arranged within the aircraft, as their placement affects the center of gravity and overall balance during flight.

The weight of the aircraft itself is crucial because it serves as a baseline for determining how much additional weight— such as passengers, cargo, and fuel— can be safely loaded without exceeding the maximum takeoff weight or compromising safety.

Fuel load is also a critical aspect, as the amount of fuel affects both the total weight of the aircraft and its balance. Different fuel loads can change the center of gravity, especially if fuel is carried in tanks located in various positions throughout the aircraft.

In contrast, while weather conditions can impact flight performance and safety, they do not directly factor into the weight and balance computations during the planning stage. Weather can affect how the aircraft reacts in flight but does not alter the inherent weight or distribution of that weight, which are the primary considerations in weight and balance assessments.