What effect does flap extension have on CG positioning in light aircraft?

Flap extension in light aircraft generally results in the center of gravity (CG) moving forward slightly. This phenomenon occurs due to the change in the aircraft's aerodynamics when flaps are deployed. When flaps are extended, they increase lift, allowing the aircraft to operate at a higher angle of attack without stalling.

This change can shift the load distribution in the aircraft, resulting in a slight forward movement of the CG. Pilots need to account for this shift, as an appropriately positioned CG is crucial for maintaining stability and control during different phases of flight, particularly during takeoff and landing.

While the other choices suggest various outcomes related to CG movement, they do not accurately capture the common effect observed with flap extension in light aircraft, which is the slight forward shift of the CG. This understanding is essential for pilots when calculating load distributions and ensuring safe flight operations.