Prior to cargo jettison, what should the crew ensure?

Before proceeding with cargo jettison, it is essential for the crew to ensure that the allowable center of gravity (CG) limits are not exceeded. This is crucial because maintaining proper CG limits is vital for the stability and control of the aircraft during and after the jettison process. An aircraft outside its CG limits can experience handling difficulties, which could compromise safety and increase the risk of an accident.

Ensuring that the CG limits are adhered to allows the crew to maintain optimal performance and safety margins. This consideration helps in preventing adverse effects on the aircraft's attitude and responsiveness, which is especially important when performing such a significant maneuver as cargo jettison. Therefore, prioritizing the CG limits is a fundamental aspect of ensuring a safe operation in these scenarios.