What does it mean when a plane is described as 'payload optimized'?

When a plane is described as 'payload optimized,' it specifically refers to the consideration of weight limits and how the aircraft's load can be maximized for efficiency. The term 'weight critical' captures this aspect perfectly, as it indicates that the aircraft's performance is heavily influenced by the weight of its payload, whether it be passengers, cargo, or fuel.

In a payload optimized design, the distribution of weight is carefully managed to ensure that the aircraft functions safely within its limits while taking on as much payload as possible. This means the aircraft has been engineered to maximize the operational capacity regarding payload without exceeding weight restrictions, which is crucial for both safety and efficiency in flight operations.

The other options provided address different aspects of aircraft performance or design but do not directly relate to the concept of payload optimization in the same way. For example, aerodynamic efficiency pertains to the overall design for minimizing drag, while advanced navigation systems relate to operational capabilities, and maximum passenger capacity focuses solely on the number of passengers rather than the balance of weight and efficiency.