MEA241C
Perform aircraft weight and balance calculations as a result of modifications

This unit of competency covers competencies required to progress from an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer at Certificate IV to the granting of a B2 Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Licence in the Avionics category under CASR Part 66, in accordance with the licensing provisions in the Assessment Guidelines.The skills and knowledge covered by the units of competency listed in the MEA11 Aeroskills Training Package for Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Avionics or Mechanical as applicable) at Certificate IV are prerequisite to the attainment of the elements of competency specified in this unit.

Application

This unit requires application of mathematical formulae to calculate the weight and balance effect of components installed in aircraft during modification incorporation.

Applications include fixed and rotary wing aircraft.


Prerequisites

Not applicable.


Elements and Performance Criteria

1

Calculate the weight and balance impact of a modification

1.1

The requirement for aircraft weighing is determined

1.2

The new empty weight of the aircraft is determined and it is ensured that the weight is within the predetermined limits set by the CAMO

1.3

The new empty weight centre of gravity of the aircraft is calculated and it is ensured that the centre of gravity is within the predetermined limits set by the CAMO

1.4

Maintenance records are updated with new figures

Required Skills

Look for evidence that confirms knowledge of:

mathematical formulae used to calculate centre of gravity of an aircraft

Look for evidence that confirms skills in:

calculating the effect on aircraft weight and centre of gravity of components installed during modification incorporation using weight and moment arm data

Evidence Required

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment

A person who demonstrates competency in this unit must be able to use mathematical formulae to calculate aircraft weight and balance given weight and moment arm data and correctly update maintenance records.

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

The underlying skills inherent in this unit should be transferable across a range of aircraft types. Ability to interpret the instructions for configuring and weighing aircraft is critical.

Evidence of transferability of skills and knowledge related to aircraft weight and calculation of centre of gravity is essential. A person cannot be assessed as competent until it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the workplace assessor that the relevant elements of the unit of competency are being achieved under supervision without intervention. This shall be established via simulated activities at the CASR Part 147 Maintenance Training Organisation and performance during observed workplace activities.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Competency may be assessed in the workplace or simulated workplace.

Method of assessment

Guidance information for assessment


Range Statement

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Aircraft centre of gravity

Aircraft centre of gravity is determined:

using the weight and moment arm data for a modification

The work can relate to:

scheduled or unscheduled maintenance and may involve individual activities or supervision of other personnel

Procedures and requirements

Refer to industry standard procedures specified by manufacturers, regulatory authorities or the enterprise


Sectors

Aviation maintenance


Employability Skills

This unit contains employability skills.


Licensing Information

Not applicable.