Cargo Airlift Procedures Exam

ADVANCE FLYING ACADEMY

Cargo Airlift Procedures Exam

A Cargo Airlift Procedures Exam evaluates your understanding of the planning, loading, and execution of airlift operations. These operations are critical for transporting troops, equipment, and supplies efficiently and safely, often under time-sensitive and challenging conditions. Below is a guide to help you prepare:

Key Topics to Study

1. Airlift Planning and Mission Preparation

Types of cargo airlift operations:
- Strategic (long-distance transport).
- Tactical (short-haul or battlefield operations).
Mission planning:
- Route planning, airspace considerations, and alternate airfields.
- Time on target (TOT) and coordination with other assets.
Weather and environmental impact on airlift operations.

2. Aircraft Capabilities and Limitations

Study the capabilities and configurations of airlift aircraft (e.g., C-130 Hercules, C-17 Globemaster III, C-5 Galaxy).
Weight and balance considerations for specific aircraft types.
Range, speed, and payload limitations.

3. Cargo Types and Characteristics

Types of cargo: vehicles, equipment, pallets, personnel, hazardous materials.
Cargo weight classifications and distribution for safe flight operations.
Special handling requirements (e.g., ammunition, medical supplies, perishables).

4. Weight and Balance

Computing center of gravity (CG) and load distribution.
Use of weight and balance charts or software tools.
Impact of improper loading on flight performance and safety.

5. Cargo Loading and Restraint Procedures

Loading methods:
- Palletized cargo using 463L cargo systems.
- Rolling cargo (vehicles, tanks).
- Sling loads (helicopter airlift operations).
Cargo restraint and tie-down methods:
- Restraint criteria: forward, aft, lateral, and vertical.
- Proper use of tie-down devices and chains.
Aircraft loading teams' roles and responsibilities.

6. Airdrop Operations

Planning and executing airdrops:
- High-altitude vs. low-altitude drops.
- Types of airdrops: personnel, container delivery system (CDS), heavy equipment.
Navigation and timing considerations for airdrops.
Parachute types and packing requirements.

7. Hazardous Material Transport

Regulations governing the transport of hazardous materials (e.g., ICAO, IATA, military directives).
Labeling, documentation, and segregation of hazardous materials.
Emergency response procedures for hazardous cargo incidents.

8. Safety and Emergency Procedures

Fire suppression systems and fireproofing cargo.
Evacuation procedures in case of inflight emergencies.
Handling cargo shifts during flight.

9. Regulations and Documentation

Review relevant military and civilian airlift regulations (e.g., AMC instructions, FAA standards).
Cargo manifest preparation and inspection requirements.
Customs and clearance procedures for international airlift.

10. Crew Resource Management (CRM)

Communication and coordination among aircrew, ground crews, and cargo handlers.
Decision-making in dynamic environments (e.g., last-minute cargo changes).
Situational awareness during loading, flight, and unloading.

Sample Questions

Multiple Choice:
What is the maximum pallet height for cargo loaded on a C-130 Hercules?
- A. 96 inches.
- B. 104 inches.
- C. 120 inches.
- D. 144 inches.
(Correct Answer: A)
Scenario Question:
You are tasked with transporting a mix of hazardous materials and medical supplies. Describe the steps you would take to ensure safe and compliant loading and transport.
Calculation Problem:
An aircraft has a maximum payload capacity of 50,000 lbs, and its current cargo weighs 45,000 lbs. If the fuel load adds an additional 8,000 lbs, calculate how much weight must be offloaded to meet maximum takeoff weight restrictions.
True/False:
Cargo restraint devices are only required for forward and aft movement but not for vertical loads.

Study Tips

Review Aircraft Loading Manuals:
- Familiarize yourself with weight and balance charts, load planning guides, and specific aircraft technical manuals.
Understand Regulations:
- Study applicable standards, such as FAA and ICAO rules for air cargo, as well as military-specific guidance like AMC instructions.
Practice Calculations:
- Focus on weight and balance problems, center of gravity shifts, and restraint requirements.
Simulate Operations:
- Practice loading and unloading scenarios in simulators or during field training.
Safety Protocols:
- Memorize emergency procedures related to hazardous materials, fire suppression, and cargo shifts.