The term "Zero Fuel Weight" (ZFW) is a crucial parameter in aviation that refers to the total weight of an aircraft when it has no usable fuel on board. The ZFW is an important parameter for the weight and balance calculations of an aircraft, as it indicates the maximum structural load that the aircraft can carry without fuel.
Components of the ZFW
Operative empty weight (OEW)
- Structure: This includes the basic structure of the aircraft, including wings, fuselage and landing gear.
- Systems: All permanently installed systems such as avionics, hydraulics, electrics and air conditioning.
- Crew: The weight of the crew members required to operate the aircraft.
- Fixed equipment: This includes all permanently installed facilities such as seats, kitchens and toilets.
- Operating fluids: Fluids that are necessary for the operation of the aircraft, such as hydraulic fluid and lubricants, but not the fuel.
Payload
- Passengers: The weight of all passengers on board.
- Luggage: The weight of all baggage carried by passengers.
- Freight: Goods that are stored in the cargo hold of the aircraft for transportation.
- Post: Mail items that are transported.
- Pallets and containers: Standardized loading units that can contain freight and baggage.
What the ZFW does not include
- Usable fuel: The fuel used for flight operations is not included in the ZFW. This includes the fuel required for take-off, flight and landing.
- Reserve fuel: Additional fuel carried for unforeseen circumstances such as weather changes or longer flight routes.
- Emergency fuel: Fuel reserved for emergencies, such as detour to alternative airports.
- Travel fuel: The fuel required for the planned journey, including the fuel for the flight to the destination and any waiting times.
The ZFW is a critical value that ensures that the aircraft is operated within its structural limits. It is important for flight planning and weight distribution to ensure the safety and efficiency of flight operations.
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