IATA has launched a unit load device (ULD) safety campaign to focus industry attention on the the one aircraft component that is handled by multiple, non-regulated parties outside of the airport.

According to IATA, there are some 900,000 ULDs in circulation with a replacement cost of more than $1bn and with an annual damage repair cost of $330m.

With tag line “ULD, it’s not just a box,” the airline industry association is making a series of informative posters available free online (www.iata.org/ULD).

It is encouraging all members of the air cargo supply to promote awareness of how mistreatment of airfreight containers is costly and can be dangerous.

IATA said that 80% of ULD repair costs can be avoided if the equipment is handled correctly, while also pointing out that careless handling can put the safety of passengers, crew and aircraft at risk.

The ULD, including pallets and straps, are all considered an aircraft component and are subject to air worthiness certification.

However, ULD are the number one cause of aircraft damage among all ground operations equipment.

Better training and an awareness of the ULD vulnerability to incorrect handling are key parts of the message to all non-regulated supply chain participants who come into contact with the equipment.

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