Which factors are considered when determining cargo weight limits for aircraft?

When determining cargo weight limits for aircraft, several critical factors come into play to ensure safety and optimal performance. Maximum takeoff weight is a key consideration, as it refers to the maximum weight at which an aircraft is certified to take off. This includes the weight of the aircraft itself, fuel, passengers, cargo, and any other items on board.

Design specifications are also essential, as they encompass the aircraft's structural capabilities and its engineering limits. These specs determine how much weight the aircraft can safely carry without affecting its stability and performance during flight.

Additionally, balance constraints are integral to cargo weight limits. Proper weight distribution is crucial for ensuring that the aircraft remains aerodynamically stable. If weight is not evenly distributed, it can lead to adverse handling characteristics or even accidents during flight.

Thus, all three factors—maximum takeoff weight, design specs, and balance constraints—work together to define how much cargo an aircraft can carry safely. In contrast, other options may overlook essential aspects, focusing on only one or two of these important considerations, which would provide an incomplete picture for safe cargo operation.