What should be done when cargo weight exceeds limits during flight planning?

When cargo weight exceeds the limits during flight planning, the most effective action is to adjust load distribution. Proper load distribution is crucial for maintaining aircraft balance and ensuring safe flight operations. By redistributing the weight of the cargo, the pilot can help maintain the aircraft's center of gravity within acceptable limits. This action facilitates adherence to safety protocols and compliance with regulatory requirements while ensuring the aircraft's performance is not compromised.

Reducing passenger count might seem like an option to decrease weight, but it is not the most practical or effective approach, especially if the cargo weight can be managed through load adjustment. Increasing temperature settings would not address the issue of excess cargo weight and could potentially lead to other operational concerns. Canceling the flight is certainly a last-resort option and would typically be considered only if no other solutions are feasible; however, it is not the preferred method of addressing the situation if there are adjustments that can be made. Thus, adjusting load distribution is the recommended practice in this scenario.