In what way does an aircraft with a forward center of gravity differ from one with an aft center of gravity?

An aircraft with a forward center of gravity tends to be more stable than one with an aft center of gravity due to the distribution of weight affecting its handling characteristics. When weight is distributed forward, the aircraft's aerodynamic design ensures that it has a natural tendency to return to a straight and level flight path after a disturbance, such as turbulence or changes in yaw.

This increased stability is beneficial because it allows for smoother flight and makes the aircraft easier to control, especially for less experienced pilots or during turbulent conditions. In contrast, an aircraft with an aft center of gravity may exhibit decreased stability, making it more sensitive to control inputs and potentially leading to challenging flight characteristics, including difficulty maintaining level flight and increased risk of stalling.

In terms of stall speed, an aircraft with a forward center of gravity does not have a higher stall speed merely due to its stability; stall speed is more influenced by factors like wing design and loading. Thus, while an aft center of gravity can result in a lower stall speed because of a higher angle of attack, this is distinct from the stability factor. Additionally, altitude requirements for operation and maneuverability are influenced by a range of factors, including aircraft design and intended use, and not solely determined by the center of gravity configuration.