Which of the following best defines ballast in aviation?

• A. Weight added to an aircraft to improve speed.
• B. Fuel added for extended range.
• C. Weight added to an aircraft to keep it in proper weight and balance.
• D. A device used to measure cargo weight.

Answer: (C)

Ballast in aviation is intentional weight added to an aircraft to keep it within proper weight and balance limits. The goal is to position the center of gravity so the airplane remains stable and controllable throughout the flight. It isn’t about increasing speed or adding fuel for range, and it isn’t a device used to measure cargo weight. Ballast is specifically about placing physical mass to achieve safe, correct balance within the aircraft’s design limits.