GWH stands for "Gross Weight Hour," and it is a term commonly used in aviation. GWH refers to the total weight of an aircraft, including its fuel, cargo, and passengers, which is carried over a period of one hour. It is an important metric used to calculate the fuel efficiency and performance capabilities of an aircraft.
In aviation, GWH is used to determine the maximum payload an aircraft can carry or the fuel consumption rate. It is crucial for flight planning, as it helps determine the range and endurance of an aircraft. By knowing the GWH, pilots can calculate the required amount of fuel for a specific flight and ensure that the weight and balance limitations of the aircraft are not exceeded.
Calculating GWH involves taking into account the basic operating weight of the aircraft, which includes the weight of the airframe, engines, and fixed equipment. Additional variables such as fuel weight, passengers, baggage, and cargo are then added to determine the total weight.
GWH is often expressed in pounds or kilograms. Airlines and manufacturers provide GWH specifications for each aircraft model to assist in flight planning and operational decision-making. By utilizing GWH data, pilots and flight operators can optimize fuel consumption, ensure aircraft performance, and maintain flight safety.
