What does the traffic load in an aircraft include?

The traffic load in an aircraft encompasses a comprehensive range of elements that contribute to the overall weight and balance of the aircraft during flight. This includes the mass of passengers, baggage, cargo, and any specialist equipment that may be onboard. Understanding this is crucial for calculating the aircraft's performance, ensuring accurate weight and balance calculations, and maintaining safety standards throughout operations.

While the other factors, such as fuel weight and emergency equipment, are important for overall aircraft operation, they do not fall under the specific definition of traffic load. The traffic load primarily focuses on the items and people that are directly transported in the passenger cabin and cargo areas, as these will affect how the aircraft handles in flight and its fuel efficiency. Thus, recognizing that traffic load includes a diverse array of items helps ensure a more comprehensive approach to mass and balance calculations necessary for flight safety.