Optimally Planning the Payloads of Cargo
AircraftSemiautomatic planning of the weight and balance of cargo aircraft will soon be based on a much better standard at the responsible department of Fraport Ground Services,.
An aircraft’s weight and balance are calculated in compliance with strict IATA regulations as part of flight preparations. A so-called load and trim sheet is required for every commercial flight. It lists the weight and distribution of the passengers, fuel, cargo, and all equipment required to operate the flight. The distribution of the overall load within the aircraft – important for monitoring the maximum permissible masses – and the aircraft’s center of gravity – the trim – are included. The trim must also remain within a prescribed tolerance during takeoff, the entire flight, and landing. When preparing the loading plan, it is necessary not only to consider the positions, weights, and sizes of cargo units but especially also whether the IATA rules permit them to be stowed adjacent to one another in the aircraft.