What does the combined total of basic operating weight plus payload represent?

The combined total of basic operating weight plus payload is known as zero fuel weight. This weight is crucial for flight planning and operational considerations because it represents the weight of the aircraft with all necessary operational equipment and the maximum allowable payload, excluding any fuel onboard.

Basic operating weight includes the weight of the aircraft plus all operational items such as crew, equipment, and necessary supplies. Payload refers to passengers, cargo, and baggage. Understanding zero fuel weight is essential as it informs decisions regarding loading, balance, and overall weight limits; it also helps in determining the necessary fuel required for a flight within safety and regulatory guidelines.

The other concepts, like maximum takeoff weight, landing weight, and flight revenue weight, pertain to different phases of flight and weight categorizations. For instance, maximum takeoff weight includes the total weight of the aircraft at takeoff, including fuel, while landing weight considers the aircraft's weight upon touchdown. Flight revenue weight specifically focuses on the weight of paying cargo and passengers but does not incorporate operational aspects like basic operating weight.