What must a mechanic determine about the new center of gravity after installing a reinforcement bracket on an airplane?

After installing a reinforcement bracket on an airplane, it is crucial for the mechanic to determine whether the new center of gravity (CG) remains within acceptable limits for safe flight operations. When a weight, such as a reinforcement bracket, is added to the aircraft, the total weight increases, and the distribution of weight may shift, potentially affecting the CG location.

The correct answer emphasizes the necessity to understand the implications of the new weight configuration following an installation. If the new CG is found to be outside of the allowable limits, ballast may need to be added to bring the CG back within safe parameters. This process ensures that the aircraft's stability and control characteristics are not adversely affected, which is vital for safe flight operations.

In this context, knowing the exact position of the new CG and whether ballast is required after an installation is part of standard weight and balance procedures. It helps maintain the aircraft's designed handling characteristics, ensuring that it operates safely and efficiently. The notion that the weight of the bracket doesn't affect CG is misleading, as any additional weight has the potential to alter the overall CG position and must be evaluated.