Which of the following is included in standard empty weight?

• A. Payload
• B. Usable fuel
• C. Unusable fuel
• D. Pilot's seat weight

Answer: (C)

Standard empty weight is the aircraft’s weight with all fixed equipment and standard operating fluids on board, including the small amount of fuel that cannot be drained. That unusable fuel is part of the airplane’s mass and does not get counted as usable fuel or as payload. So it is included in the standard empty weight. Usable fuel is not included because its amount can vary and is accounted for separately in weight and balance. Payload (passengers and cargo) is also not part of empty weight, since that load is carried in addition to the empty aircraft. The pilot’s seat isn’t counted as part of empty weight due to occupant weight being part of payload when the plane is flown.