> I traveled on an airline in about 1985 that had a "weighbridge" in 
> front of
> the check in counter - you were weighed as you checked in. Didn't 
> change
> the fare, but possibly allowed them to carry more cargo. (Or less 
> fuel ?)

On smaller aircraft the actual distribution of load can be 
significantly affected by passengers and it can help to know exactly 
who weighs what and where they are located. AFAIR moment calculation 
sheets are used to assist in loading.

On all aircraft load distribution is significant but I assume that 
with large passenger aircraft they control the cargo distribution and 
make assumptions about where people are located. "Everyone to the back 
of the plane" probably makes for interesting changes for the pilot.


        RM

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