What does "CG" signify in aviation terms?

In aviation, "CG" stands for Center of Gravity, which is a critical concept affecting an aircraft's stability and performance. The center of gravity is the point where the aircraft's mass is evenly distributed; it is crucial for ensuring balanced flight. Proper placement of the CG allows for efficient control during maneuvers, affecting aspects such as handling, fuel efficiency, and safety. If the CG is too far forward or aft, it can lead to difficulties in controlling the aircraft, resulting in undesirable flight characteristics.

Understanding the center of gravity is essential for pilots and engineers when loading the aircraft, as each aircraft design has specific limits for CG placement to maintain optimal performance and safety. In contrast, other terms like Controlled Glide, Calculated Ground, or Constant Glide do not capture the fundamental significance of balance in aircraft operation that the center of gravity does.