Weight and Balance Spread Sheet Calculator

Last update: June 2011

The Weight and Balance Spread Sheet Calculator available here is set up with all the limiting values applicable to VH-IDT.

It provides a fast and accurate method to swap fuel and passenger/baggage loading to keep the aircraft loaded safely.

There are 3 versions of the calculator available. For first time users, it is suggested that you down load Wb4.xls and become familiar with aircraft loading. This workbook also contains a spread sheet for the 172N if operation in the Utility category is required. Utility Category added

A third version known as Maxima.xls is available for advanced fuel, load and flight planning. As its name suggests, it was developed to help plan maximum range flights. Maxima.xls is more easily adapted to suit other aircraft and is the only known 'aircraft adaptable' W&B calculator that links fuel on board, fuel consumption and flight planning. Any incorrect loading causing an out of limit situation is flagged.

 

Maxima.xls is available free of charge in the interests of GA safety by contacting:

Maxima.xls is an advanced flight planning tool and is recommended when it is required to fly the aircraft to its maximum safe endurance. Ideally, the aircraft should possess a calibrated fuel flow computer coupled to a GPS based device that provides ground speed and distance to destination in NMEA format on an RS232 port. VH IDT has a Garmin GPS compatible data lead (The large 4 pin black plug) that interfaces most Garmin units with the FS 450 fuel flow meter.

This series of actual flight frames show the six FS 450 read-outs when connected to a 96C in navigation mode. Note that without a GPS connected and set up, only the first three read-outs on the top line are displayed.

 

 


The Spreadsheets do not use macros - just formulas.

To Down Load Wb4.xls, Right Click here

and then select Save Link As then specify a path to save the file. Once the file is on your hard disk or even a floppy, you may run the calculator without being connected to the Internet.

Note that when opening the calculator, it will prompt you to open as Read Only. Answer Yes. When closing the calculator, it will prompt you to Save Changes. Answer No, unless you want to keep your data.

The Utility Workbook uses Circular References. Read here if you need to turn this function on.

You can down load Maxima.xls by substituting Maxima for Wb4 in the down load link above.

EMPTY WEIGHT UPDATED JULY 2007