What is the main concern of the maximum zero fuel mass (MZFM)?

The main concern of the maximum zero fuel mass (MZFM) is the weight disregarding fuel, which is crucial for ensuring the safety and performance of the aircraft. MZFM represents the maximum weight of the aircraft when all fuel is excluded, encompassing the structure, payload, cargo, and any other non-fuel items. Understanding MZFM helps operators to ensure that the load of passengers and cargo does not exceed the structural limits of the aircraft, thereby maintaining safe operating conditions.

In scenarios where MZFM is considered, it is essential to ensure that the combined weight of the aircraft's contents (excluding fuel) remains under this limit throughout operations. Exceeding this limit can impact the aircraft's performance, stability, and structural integrity. This understanding is vital in ensuring safe loading practices and calculations during the mass and balance procedures.

Concepts like altitude restrictions, engine weight, and distribution of cargo are important aspects of aircraft operations, but they do not directly relate to the core definition and purpose of MZFM, making them less relevant in this context.