What is the All Up Weight (AUW)?

The All Up Weight (AUW) refers to the total mass or weight of the aircraft at a specific time, encompassing all components that contribute to the aircraft's weight. This includes the empty weight, fuel, passengers, cargo, and any other items on board. Understanding AUW is crucial for various operational considerations, including performance calculations, takeoff and landing distances, and ensuring compliance with weight limits established by regulations and aircraft design.

The other options do not encompass the comprehensive nature of AUW. For example, defining AUW solely as the weight of the aircraft at landing would ignore critical factors affecting the aircraft before and during flight. Similarly, focusing merely on the cargo weight or the empty weight does not provide a complete picture, as AUW must integrate all elements influencing total weight, such as fuel and occupants. Thus, identifying AUW as the total mass at a given moment captures the essence of what this term entails in aviation terminology.