When should actual passenger weight be considered for flight planning?

The principle behind considering actual passenger weight during flight planning is primarily related to ensuring safety and regulatory compliance. When the total weight of passengers exceeds standard limits, it can significantly impact the aircraft’s performance, including takeoff, landing distances, fuel efficiency, and overall safety margins.

In commercial aviation, standard weight assumptions are typically used for planning purposes, but actual weight should be taken into account when it surpasses these assumptions to avoid exceeding the maximum takeoff weight and to ensure adherence to the aircraft's operating limits. This is crucial for maintaining safe operational conditions and optimizing performance during the flight phase.

Considering actual passenger weight is especially important in situations where weight could exceed the aircraft's capabilities, ensuring that the flight adheres to all safety regulations and performance criteria.