Flight Crew & Load Planner - Load Limits

Load limits refer to the maximum load that a structure can safely carry. Load planners must ensure that cargo remains within an aircraft's load limits and that it is evenly distributed.

A linear load limit refers to the longitudinal strength of the aircraft floor. This limit varies depending on the type of aircraft used. Aircraft loaders must refer to the operator's aircraft loading manual to ensure the linear load limits are not exceeded when loading heavy dangerous goods.

Area load limit identifies the maximum weight the floor of the aircraft or unit load device is designed to safely carry. This limit is usually expressed in pounds per square foot and varies depending on the type of aircraft used. Aircraft loaders must refer to the operator's aircraft loading manual to ensure that the area load limit is not exceeded when loading dangerous goods onto the aircraft or a unit load device. This is especially important when loading large items with small footprints, such as drums.

If the linear or area load limit is exceeded because of the weight or density of a package, the operator must use shoring or dunnage to ensure the weight is evenly distributed.

To learn more about Flight Crew & Load Planner visit our IATA DGR Flight Crew & Load Planner Online Training web page.