What does the maximum zero fuel weight refer to?

The term "maximum zero fuel weight" refers specifically to the maximum allowable weight of an aircraft without any fuel on board. This weight includes the aircraft’s empty weight plus passengers, cargo, and any other items that are not fuel. It is an important aspect of weight and balance calculations because it ensures that the aircraft remains within safe operational limits regarding structural integrity and performance criteria, regardless of the amount of fuel it may carry at any given time.

By adhering to the maximum zero fuel weight, operators can optimize safety and maintain required performance characteristics during flight, ensuring the aircraft can handle take-off, flight, and landing scenarios effectively.