Missionized aircraft can accommodate a maximum of _____ ground troops or _____ paratroops?

• A. 81 ground troops, 55 paratroops
• B. 70 ground troops, 40 paratroops
• C. 60 ground troops, 60 paratroops
• D. 90 ground troops, 30 paratroops

Answer: (A)

Payload capacity in a missionized aircraft is determined by how the space, weight, and balance are allocated for a given mission profile. When loaded with ground troops, the cabin arrangement and seating enable up to 81 troops while still staying within weight and center-of-gravity limits and keeping safety margins for the crew and equipment. If the aircraft is configured for paratroop operations, additional requirements for jump operations—such as space for jump masters, static lines, door clearance, and the distribution of paratroopers to ensure safe egress—reduce the available capacity to 55 paratroops. This is why the maximums differ by role and why 81 ground troops or 55 paratroops is the correct pair. Other numbers would violate either the weight/balance constraints or the door exit requirements defined for this configuration, making them infeasible.