Originally Posted by
dmsdfw
Which begs the question as to how do they get into an overweight situation given that the plane is presumably designed to have every seat occupied. Is it a result of heavier than normal checked baggage or does it typically occur when additional fuel is needed because of headwinds etc.?
Both fuel load and air temp can cause an overweight situation. The warmer the air the thinner and more thrust needed to get airborne. When flying the corp jet years ago, warm days prompted a stop midway to refuel as they did not want to face a fuel emergency if there was a delay in landing at final destination. Fortunately they never considered leaving anyone behind.