In small airplanes, normal recovery from spins may become difficult if the CG is too far rearward, and rotation is around the CG.

• A. Spin recovery is easier when the CG is rearward.
• B. Spin recovery from spins is unaffected by the CG position.
• C. In small airplanes, normal recovery from spins may become difficult if the CG is too far rearward, and rotation is around the CG.
• D. Spin recovery is only dependent on rudder input.

Answer: (C)

The key idea is how where the center of gravity is located affects a spin’s stability and the ability to recover. In a spin, the airplane rotates about its center of gravity, and the pilot relies on control inputs, mainly opposite rudder and forward pressure on the elevator, to reduce angle of attack and stop the yawing/rolling motion.

If the CG is too far toward the rear, the airplane becomes less longitudinally stable and the tail’s aerodynamic authority is reduced. With the mass further aft, the aircraft’s moment of inertia about the spin axis increases, so the spin tends to continue more readily and resists changes in rotation. In this situation, the elevator’s ability to push the nose down and the rudder’s ability to oppose the spin are both diminished, making normal spin recovery more difficult.

That’s why the statement correctly notes that in small airplanes, normal spin recovery may become difficult if the CG is too far rearward, and the rotation is about the CG. Moving the CG forward generally improves recoverability by increasing stability and control effectiveness. The other options don’t reflect the real relationship between CG position and spin recovery, and spin recovery is not governed by rudder input alone.