Appendix B B-2
8. FAA Form 8130-3, Authorized Release Certificate, Airworthiness Approval Tag.
9. TSO-C90, Cargo Pallets, Nets and Containers (Unit Load Devices).
10. TSO-C172, Cargo Restraint Strap Assemblies.
11. TSO-C202, Cargo Stopper Devices.
B.3 Cargo AC Development Information:
1. Air Cargo System Implementation Plan, March 2003.
2. Cargo Strategic Action Plan, April 2002.
3. Civil Reserve Air Fleet Aircraft Procedures for the U.S. Military, FM 55-9.
B.4 Industry Information (current editions):
B.4.1 International Air Transport Association (IATA). Any IATA procedures used must not conflict with FAA regulatory requirements or aircraft limitations. The following documents are available at https://www.iata.org/en/publications/:
1. IATA ULD Regulations (ULDR).
2. IATA Airport Handling Manual (AHM).
3. IATA Ground Operations Manual (IGOM).
4. IATA Perishable Cargo Regulations (PCR).
5. IATA Live Animals Regulations (LAR).
6. IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR).
7. IATA Temperature Control Regulations (TCR).
8. IATA Lithium Battery Shipping Guidelines (LBSG).
B.4.2 International Organization for Standardization (ISO) International Standard ISO 4118, Air Cargo—Non-Certified Lower Deck Containers—Design and Testing, and other pertinent international standards. This standard is available at https://www.iso.org/home.h tml.
B.4.3 National Aerospace Standard (NAS) 3610, Cargo Unit Load Devices—Specification For.
B.4.4 SAE Aerospace Standards (AS). These standards are available at https://www.sae.org/standards/.
1. AS1130, Air and Air/Surface (Platform) Cargo Pallets.
2. AS1131, Air and Air/Surface (Platform) Cargo Pallet Nets.
3. AS1491, Interline Air Cargo Pallets.
4. AS1492, Interline Air Cargo Pallet Nets.
Appendix B B-3
5. AS1677, General Requirements for Noncertified Cargo/Baggage Containers.
6. AS4041, Air Mode General Purpose Containers.
7. AS5385, Cargo Restraint Straps—Design Criteria and Testing Methods.
8. AS5896, Certified Containers for Lower Deck Compartments.
9. AS36100, Air Cargo Unit Load Devices—Performance Requirements and Test Parameters.
10. AS36101, Air Cargo Unit Load Devices—Load Distribution Model.
B.4.5 SAE Aerospace Recommended Practices (ARP). These documents are available at https://www.sae.org/standards/.
1. ARP1334, Ground Equipment Requirements for Compatibility with Aircraft Unit Load Devices.
2. ARP1554, Vehicle Transport Unit Load Device (ULD).
3. ARP1621, ULD for Aircraft Transportation of Horses.
4. ARP1840, Aircraft Engine Transport Devices.
5. ARP5486, Air Cargo Pallets—Utilization Guidelines.
6. ARP5595, Cargo Restraint Straps—Utilization Guidelines.
7. ARP5596, Cargo Shoring Guidelines.
Appendix C C-1 APPENDIX C. DEFINITIONS RELATED TO AIR CARGO OPERATIONS C.1 Active Unit Load Devices (ULD). ULDs with active temperature control systems for transporting temperature-sensitive cargo. These systems consist of a highly insulated container with a battery-operated heating/cooling system integrated into the construction of the container. Active ULDs are intended to be operating during flight. Active ULDs are battery-powered in flight and are recharged only while on the ground. The “active” component of these units typically consists of a vapor cycle refrigeration/heat pump type system that is powered by various types of large batteries, depending on the manufacturer.
C.2 Aircraft Loading Schedule. The loading schedule is used to document compliance with the certificated Weight and Balance (W&B) limitations contained in the manufacturer’s Airplane Flight Manual (AFM) and Weight and Balance Manual (WBM). The loading schedule is developed by the operator based on its specific loading calculation procedures and provides the operational limits for use with the operator’s W&B program accepted under this advisory circular (AC).
C.3 Approved Parts. Unless used with reference to another person, means parts approved by the Administrator.
C.4 Authorized Unit Load Device (ULD). A ULD, as defined by National Aerospace Standard (NAS) 3610, Cargo Unit Load Devices—Specification For; SAE Aerospace Standard (AS) 36100, Air Cargo Unit Load Devices—Performance Requirements and Test Parameters; Technical Standard Order (TSO)-C90, Cargo Pallets, Nets and Containers (Unit Load Devices); or other standards, for carriage within the airplane as specified in the AFM/WBM approved by the type certificate (TC) or Supplemental Type Certificate (STC). (Refer to Operations Specification (OpSpec) A002, Definitions and Abbreviations.)
C.5 Bulk Cargo. Cargo transported as individual pieces and loaded into a compartment approved for bulk cargo by the AFM/WBM that is approved by the TC or STC. These items are generally loaded planeside and loaded directly into the bulk compartment.
(Refer to OpSpec A002.)
C.6 Cargo. Any property carried on an aircraft other than mail, stores, and accompanied or mishandled baggage. (Refer to OpSpec A002.)
C.7 Cargo Handling. An operator’s methods of accepting, weighing, securing, and transporting cargo on the ground, and the loading and unloading of an aircraft.
C.8 Cargo Loading System (CLS). Equipment installed to the floor of an aircraft cargo compartment to restrain aircraft ULDs against ground and flight loads. It usually consists of such items as ball mats, end stops, rollers, side guides, and locks for securing ULDs to the aircraft structure. It does not include ULDs, barriers, and tiedown straps.
Appendix C C-2 Note: The CLS is approved as part of either the aircraft’s TC or an STC.
Whenever a CLS is used, it includes cargo handling systems and cargo restraint systems.
C.9 Certified Restraint Straps. These devices should meet the requirements of TSO-C172, Cargo Restraint Strap Assemblies. In TSO-C172, the FAA describes the minimum performance standards (MPS) by which cargo restraint strap assemblies are approved and identified with applicable TSO markings.
C.10 Certified Unit Load Device (ULD). A cargo container (as defined by NAS 3610, SAE AS36100, TSO-C90, or other approval standards) that is authorized for carriage within the airplane as specified in the AFM/WBM approved by the TC or STC.
C.11 Company Materials (COMAT). Company material, commonly called COMAT, is an industry term used by operators to describe nonrevenue materials and supplies owned by the operator that are shipped by the operator in support of its operations.
C.12 Dunnage. Materials used to support and protect cargo in an aircraft cargo compartment or padding used in a shipping container to protect the container’s contents.
C.13 Dynamic Load. Loads imparted on the structure of the aircraft by loaded cargo during taxi, takeoff, cruise, and landing.
C.14 Floating Pallet. A ULD positioned over one or more pallet position(s) and not fully restrained by the aircraft ULD restraint system, but restrained to the aircraft structure by means of strapping to tiedown fittings.
C.15 Frangible or Compressible Cargo. Aircraft manufacturers’ W&B documents vary on this definition; therefore, you should reference the applicable manufacturer’s documents.
C.16 Freight Staging. The holding of cargo awaiting transportation and the delivery of cargo to the aircraft in the correct sequencing of cargo according to the load plan.
C.17 Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT). Materials or substances meeting the definition of hazardous material in 49 CFR part 171, § 171.8.
C.18 Interlining. Transfer from one operator to another, whether the same or different aircraft types are used. For example, a ULD transferred from a domestic operator to a foreign operator.
C.19 Load Supervisor. The job title of the person with overall responsibility for supervising the loading of the aircraft. This person may be responsible for signing the load manifest.
A person with a different job function may also sign the load manifest, if properly trained. Refer to 14 CFR part 121, § 121.665.
C.20 Noncertified Unit Load Device (ULD). A ULD that is not certified by the ULD manufacturer, does not meet the TSO-C90 or Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA)
Appendix C C-3 certification requirements, and/or is not listed in the design approval holder’s (DAH) aircraft WBM (TC or STC).
C.21 Offset Cargo. Cargo positioned on the pallet in a manner that the cargo is shifted beyond the perimeter of the pallet resulting in (1) the center of gravity (CG) limits of the pallet being exceeded, or (2) the restraint by the net to the pallet becoming ineffective in protecting the aircraft and preventing cargo shift. Offset cargo may also include nonpalletized cargo loaded asymmetrically in the airplane.
C.22 Other Authorized Persons. Persons who are not members of the crew and who are carried on board the aircraft per § 121.583.
C.23 Overhanging Cargo. Cargo that extends beyond the perimeter of the pallet in at least one direction but still allows the net to perform its intended function. The pallet can still be restrained by the CLS and does not require additional straps to the aircraft structure.
C.24 Overweight Cargo. Cargo that exceeds the maximum allowable weight as defined by the aircraft AFM/WBM for aircraft ULD position.
C.25 Outsized Cargo. Cargo that exceeds the maximum allowable contour of an aircraft ULD such that the ULD must be loaded on board an aircraft as a non-CLS-restrained ULD.
C.26 Pallet (Air Cargo). A flat platform with a flat undersurface of standard dimensions, on which cargo is assembled and secured and which interfaces directly with the aircraft cargo handling and restraint system.
C.27 Piercing Cargo. Cargo of a piercing or penetrating nature, such as rods, pipes, extrusions, or beams that could become a projectile hazard under flight operational loads.
C.28 Pod. An external container attached to an aircraft for carrying cargo.
C.29 Primary Restraint. The restraint of the cargo to the aircraft structure for regulatory load conditions, such as flight and emergency landing. This restraint secures cargo in the forward, aft, vertical, and lateral directions.
C.30 Receiving Inspection. Ins pection to ensure conformance to part number, purchase order, and/or other applicable criteria.
C.31 Rigid Cargo. Cargo with a density that is rigid in nature, as defined in the aircraft manufacturer’s W&B document.
C.32 Sharp Cargo. Cargo that has a piercing or penetrating nature, or cargo with sharp edges or corners.
C.33 Special Cargo. Cargo that requires special handling and securing/restraining procedures within the limitations specified in the AFM/WBM approved by the TC/STC. Special cargo may be enclosed in an approved bulk compartment if the WBM has limitations
Appendix C C-4 supporting procedures for securing and restraining the special cargo. (Refer to OpSpec A002.)
C.34 Special Handling Procedures. Additional or unique procedures, as determined by the operator, which may be required for some cargo in order to protect the cargo or the aircraft during handling acceptance, loading, or in flight.
C.35 Supplemental Restraint. Restraint that is utilized in addition to primary restraint in order to stabilize cargo and prevent shifting.
C.36 Tall Rigid Cargo (TRC). Tall cargo is cargo greater than 98 inches tall. Certain sections of tall cargo can be frangible and certain sections can be rigid. If any part of the rigid section of tall cargo is above 98 inches, the tall cargo is TRC. TRC is used only on the Boeing 747 aircraft.
C.37 Tare Weight. The weight of the empty ULD, including its normal complement of loading restraint devices. Tare weight also may include the empty weight of other material handling equipment, such as baggage carts and dollies, used to weigh cargo on a scale.
C.38 Temporary Restraint Device. Temporary net restraint fittings installed in place of damaged or missing fittings, or temporary net take-up hooks and net corner lashing lines.
C.39 Unit Load Device (U LD). A device for grouping, transferring, and restraining cargo for transit. It consists of a pallet with a net or it may be a container.
C.40 Unitized. Consolidated multiple packages or items loaded into or on a ULD.
C.41 Vendor. Any person or entity performing a service on behalf of the operator who is not an employee of the operator. This may include, but is not limited to, freight forwarders, service providers, contractors, subcontractors, customs brokers, shippers, or other operators who perform cargo buildup, aircraft loading, and unloading for the operator.
This also includes repair services provided by an FAA-certificated entity.
C.42 Zone Weight. Cumulative weight loaded within a designated zone in the aircraft as defined by the aircraft’s WBM. That zone weight may include upper deck loads and lower loads directly beneath.
Appendix D D-1 APPENDIX D. ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS 14 CFR Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations AC Advisory Circular ACO Aircraft Certification Office AD Airworthiness Directive AFM Airplane Flight Manual AIR Aircraft Certification Service CAMP Continuous Airworthiness Maintenance Program CASS Continuing Analysis and Surveillance System CBT Computer- Based Training CDL Configuration Deviation List CFR Code of Federal Regulations CG Center of Gravity CLS Cargo Loading System CMM Component Maintenance Manual COMAT Company Material CRAF Civil Reserve Air Fleet DAH Design Approval Holder DER Designated Engineering Representative FAA Federal Aviation Administration HAZMAT Hazardous Materials IATA International Air Transport Association ICA Instructions for Continued Airworthiness ICAO International Civil Aviation Organization ISO International Organization for Standardization MEL Minimum Equipment List MPS Minimum Performance Standard NAS National Aerospace Standard NIST National Institute of Standards and Technology NTSB National Transportation Safety Board OJT On-the-Job Training PC Production Certificate PI Principal Inspector PMA Parts Manufacturer Approval RCA Root Cause Analysis SB Service Bulletin SCAF Sp ecial Cargo Analysis Function STC Supplemental Type Certificate TC Type Certificate TCDS Type Certificate Data Sheet
Appendix D D-2 TRC Tall Rigid Cargo TSO Technical Standard Order ULD Unit Load Device W&B Weight and Balance WBM Weight and Balance Manual
Appendix E E-1 APPENDIX E. ACTIVE UNIT LOAD DEVICE MARKING
Advisory Circular Feedback Form If you find an error in this AC, have recommendations for improving it, or have suggestions for new items/subjects to be added, you may let us know by contacting the Air Transportation Division (AFS-200) at 9-AWA-AVS-AFS-200-Air-Transportation-Division@faa.gov or the Flight Standards Directives Management Officer at 9-AWA-AFB-120-Directives@faa.gov.
Subject: AC 120-85B, Carriage of Cargo Date: _____________________ Please check all appropriate line items:
An erro r (pro ce dural or typographical) has been noted in paragraph ____________ on page _______.
Recommend paragraph _____________ on page __________ be changed as follows:
______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ In a future change to this AC, please cover the following subject:
(Briefly describe what you want added.)
______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ Other comments:
______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ I would like to discuss the above. Please contact me.
Submitted by: Date: ______________________