In a multiple load delivery scenario on the CH-47, which hook position should be used for the lightest load when it is the last to be delivered?

In a multiple load delivery scenario using the CH-47 Chinook helicopter, selecting the appropriate hook position based on the weight of the load that is being delivered is crucial for safety and flight performance. When the lightest load is being delivered last, the aft cargo hook is the correct choice because it significantly influences the helicopter's center of gravity and stability during flight.

By using the aft cargo hook for the lightest load, the helicopter can maintain a more balanced flight profile, minimizing the risk of excessive forward tilt or instability caused by an unbalanced load scenario. The aft position allows for better distribution of weight and helps prevent potential adverse effects that might occur if the lighter load were to shift the center of gravity excessively forward or forward.

This position also helps manage the residual effects of the heavier loads that were delivered prior, ensuring that the aircraft continues to handle predictably. It's essential in multi-load deliveries to consider how the sequence and weight of the loads affect the overall flight characteristics, and employing the aft cargo hook for the lightest load effectively addresses these concerns.