Basic empty weight (GAMA) includes which items?

• A. Standard empty weight.
• B. Standard empty weight plus optional and special equipment installed.
• C. Maximum takeoff weight.
• D. Payload capacity.

Answer: (B)

Basic empty weight is the weight of the aircraft with everything installed that is part of the aircraft’s fixed equipment, including optional and special equipment that has been installed. It does not include usable fuel or any payload. So the BEW is the standard empty weight plus any installed optional/special equipment, which sets the starting point for weight-and-balance calculations. This is why it’s different from the standard empty weight (which would omit the optional-installed items), the maximum takeoff weight (which is the total aircraft weight allowed for takeoff), and payload capacity (which is the amount of weight available for passengers, cargo, and baggage).