Aircraft CG and trim - pilots' perspective?
As a load controller, I would like to know more about the pilots' perspective concerning a/c trim and CG. We were taught that within reasonable limits we should always aim for an aft CG which is more fuel efficient. What I would like to know is if this is the only factor involved, or are there any others, e.g., is it easier to handle an a/c with an aft CG or are there any instances in which you prefer the a/c more nose-heavy?
Also - and concerning the A320/321 in particular - I am curious to know if there are any zones within the operational margins (depending on the ZFW, of course) you don't feel comfortable with, and if so, what MAC ranges would that be, approximately?
Cheers