How is the Maximum Inflate Mass calculated?

The Maximum Inflate Mass refers to the weight limits an aircraft can reach considering safety and regulatory guidelines. This mass can theoretically exceed the Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW) under specific conditions, especially in cases where an aircraft is running certain flight operations; however, in practical terms, it cannot exceed the Takeoff Mass (TOM).

The TOM represents the actual weight of the aircraft at the moment just before it takes off, which includes the aircraft's weight plus fuel, passengers, cargo, and equipment. The governing regulations and structural limits of the aircraft ensure that while theoretical conditions may allow varying interpretations of mass limits, safe operation typically constrains the actual values to certain regulatory limits. Thus, it is pivotal to consider operational practicality alongside theoretical frameworks when calculating the masses for flight purposes.

The other options do not accurately capture the complexities involved in calculating Maximum Inflate Mass. Options focusing solely on subtracting crew weight, determining cargo weight, or adding fuel weight fail to consider the broader context of weight limits and regulations governing flight operations.