What should the load manifest include regarding passenger weights?

The load manifest must include the exact weights of each passenger to ensure precise calculations of the aircraft's weight and balance. Accurate weight information is critical for flight safety, as it helps the pilot determine the aircraft's performance capabilities, including takeoff distance, fuel consumption, and landing distance.

Incorporating exact passenger weights allows for better adherence to weight limits and ensures that the aircraft operates within its allowable load limits. This detailed approach minimizes risks associated with overloading, underloading, or improper weight distribution, all of which can lead to hazardous flight conditions.

While estimating average passenger weights can be useful in some circumstances, relying on averages does not provide the precision needed for safe aircraft operation. Similarly, only reporting total passenger weight without individual specifics can obscure potential issues related to weight distribution, which could affect the aircraft's center of gravity.