If the total weight from occupants and cargo is within limits but CG is out of limits, what does this indicate?

When the total weight from occupants and cargo is within the specified limits but the center of gravity (CG) is out of limits, this specifically indicates that while the overall weight is acceptable, the distribution of that weight is not. The important aspect to understand here is that the CG is crucial for maintaining the aircraft's stability and controllability during flight.

Having the CG out of limits means that the aircraft may be tail-heavy or nose-heavy, which can lead to handling issues that compromise safety. It is vital for operators to adjust the loading of cargo and the positioning of passengers to ensure the CG remains within the designated limits.

In contrast to this correct assessment, maintaining both the weight and CG within limits is essential for safe operation. If the aircraft is above the maximum weight, that would pose a completely different concern regarding aircraft capability and compliance with safety regulations, which is not the scenario described in the correct answer. This emphasizes the importance of understanding both weight and CG for safe flight operations.