What is meant by 'static load' in aviation?

Static load in aviation refers to the weight of the aircraft along with all its contents at rest, which includes passengers, cargo, fuel, and any additional equipment. This load is critical for understanding the structural integrity of the aircraft, as it needs to be properly supported by the materials and design of the aircraft structure. It is also the baseline measurement from which various performance aspects, such as weight and balance, are calculated.

In contrast, the other options relate to specific scenarios or types of loading rather than the fundamental definition of static load. Option A pertains only to fuel weight, which is just one component of the overall static load. Options C and D describe dynamic loads, which occur during specific phases of flight or under certain conditions, rather than the static condition of the aircraft at rest. Understanding static load is essential for pilots and engineers when assessing safety and performance capabilities.