What must be verified to ensure that the aircraft will be operated safely within limits?

Verifying weight and balance calculations is essential for ensuring that an aircraft is operated safely within its performance limits. The center of gravity (CG) of an aircraft must be within specified limits for stable flight. If the aircraft is not properly loaded or balanced, it could lead to control difficulties, impair handling characteristics, or even result in a stall or other unsafe flight conditions.

Weight and balance affect the aircraft's performance, including takeoff distance, climb rate, and fuel efficiency. Therefore, conducting accurate weight and balance calculations prior to flight ensures that the aircraft is configured correctly to maintain safety throughout the flight operation.

In contrast, while factors such as weather conditions, instructor certification, and maintenance records are indeed important elements of flight safety and operations, they do not directly pertain to the aircraft's specific loading and balance situation. Weather conditions affect flight operations, instructor certification assures the pilot's qualifications, and maintenance records ensure the aircraft is airworthy, but proper weight and balance calculations directly impact the aircraft's immediate operational limits and safety in flight.