What is the metric unit of mass often used in aviation?

The metric unit of mass commonly used in aviation is kilograms. This unit is part of the International System of Units (SI), which is standard in aviation for measuring mass and weight for various calculations, including aircraft performance, fuel weight, and payload.

In aviation, using a consistent unit of measurement is crucial for safety and efficiency, and kilograms provide a clear and universally understood standard. Unlike pounds, which are a part of the imperial system and primarily used in certain regions, kilograms allow for easier conversion and comparison between different measurements, especially in international contexts where metric is the norm.

Grams, while also a metric unit, are typically too small for practical aviation applications, as aircraft weights are typically measured in kilograms for larger-scale assessments. Ounces, similar to pounds, represent a smaller imperial measurement and are not used in the aviation industry for mass, reinforcing the preference for kilograms in skills like crew resource management and weight and balance calculations.