What is the maximum allowable fuel imbalance during flight?

• A. 600 pounds
• B. 800 pounds
• C. 1000 pounds
• D. 1200 pounds

Answer: (B)

Fuel imbalance between the left and right wing tanks directly affects where the airplane’s center of gravity sits. If one wing carries significantly more fuel, that heavier wing tends to roll the aircraft and the CG moves toward that side. During flight you need to keep this imbalance within a limit so handling remains safe and the CG stays inside approved envelopes as fuel is burned.

The maximum allowable imbalance for this aircraft is 800 pounds. That threshold keeps you within controllable lateral stability and CG limits while fuel is being consumed, and it’s the point at which you should balance the tanks using crossfeed or other procedures. Imbalances beyond this limit would compromise handling and CG feasibility, which is why higher values aren’t permitted during flight.