Empty manufacturer weight

The manufacturer's empty weight (MWE) is a decisive parameter in aviation that describes the weight of an aircraft in a specifically defined condition. The MWE includes the weight as the aircraft was built by the manufacturer, including all permanently installed equipment and systems required for operation. However, it excludes usable fuel, payload (such as passengers and cargo) and any operator-specific additions.

Significance of the MWE

Standardized basis for comparison

• ConsistencyThe MWE provides a standardized and consistent method for evaluating the weight of an aircraft. This enables a fair comparison between different aircraft, independent of additional variables such as fuel or payload.
• TransparencyIt creates transparency with regard to the basic weight of the aircraft, which is beneficial for manufacturers, operators and regulatory authorities.

Development and design process

• TargetsThe MWE serves as a target in the development and design process. Engineers strive to optimize the MWE in order to achieve the performance and efficiency goals of the aircraft.
• Material selection and constructionMaterials selection and aircraft design are influenced to minimize MWE without compromising structural integrity or safety.

Certification and regulation

• Certification requirementsThe MWE is an important parameter for the certification of aircraft. Regulatory authorities use the MWE to ensure that the aircraft meets safety and performance standards.
• Operating limitsThe MWE helps to define the operating limits of the aircraft, including the maximum take-off and landing weights.

Components contained in MWE

Aircraft structure and systems

• Basic structureThe basic structure of the aircraft, including fuselage, wings and empennage.
• Permanently installed systemsAll permanently installed systems required for the operation of the aircraft, such as control systems and landing gear.

Avionics and equipment

• AvionicsAll permanently installed avionics systems, including communication, navigation and surveillance systems.
• FurnishingsFixed furniture, such as seats and cabin equipment required for the operation of the aircraft.

Hydraulic and electrical systems

• Hydraulic systemsAll hydraulic systems required for the operation of the aircraft, including actuators and pumps.
• Electrical systemsAll electrical systems and cabling required for the operation of the aircraft.

Liquids and unusable fuel/oil

• Lubricants and coolantsAll fluids required for the operation of the aircraft, including lubricants and coolants.
• Unusable fuel/oilFuel and oil that remain in the systems and cannot be used for operation.

Components not included in MWE

Payload

• Passengers, baggage and cargoAll payloads, including passengers, baggage and cargo, are not included in the MWE.

Usable fuel

• Fuel for operationThe usable fuel used to operate the aircraft is not included in the MWE.

Optional/variable equipment

• Operator-specific additionsAll optional or variable equipment added by the operator is not included in the MWE.

Optimization of the MWE

Optimizing the MWE is a continuous process in aircraft design and development. This includes:

• Lightweight constructionUse of lightweight materials and advanced manufacturing techniques to reduce weight.
• Design adjustmentsDesign adjustments to eliminate unnecessary mass and improve structural efficiency.
• Technology integrationIntegration of new technologies that reduce weight without compromising performance or safety.

In summary, the MWE is a crucial parameter that provides a standardized basis for comparison and enables the performance evaluation of aircraft. By optimizing the MWE, manufacturers can improve the performance, efficiency and safety of their aircraft.