CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
A major part of any operational readiness inspection is how cargo is prepared for deployment and redeployment. In an effort to help with this task, the 437th Aerial Port Squadron has developed the cargo outreach program. The cargo outreach program is a locally developed program designed to assist each unit get one-on-one time with the cargo professionals in the 437 APS. An aerial port cargo specialist is available to visit Team Charleston units to inspect built-up cargo increments for airworthiness and review the increment folders for accuracy.
In addition to the efforts provided by the cargo outreach program, the following information should be used by units in preparing cargo for air movement:
Hazardous Cargo
Hazardous cargo must be prepared and packaged in accordance with Air Force Joint Manual 24-204, Preparation of Hazardous Materials for Air Shipment. Package hazardous material in approved marked containers and prepare the shippers declaration. Remember to include shippers declarations for the return trip. Classified, signature service and constant surveillance material (i.e. weapons and ammunition) will require a Defense Department Form 1387-2, Special Handling Data/Certification. If using shipping containers, the keys and combinations must accompany the cargo to the cargo deployment facility. It is also advisable that a spare key be kept at the unit.
Palletizing Cargo
Before placing cargo on the pallet it must be inspected. Always look underneath pallets first, ensuring there is no damage that would interfere with pallets locking into the aircraft rail system. A pallet with loose attachments, missing ring assemblies, exposed deteriorating balsa core or other external damage should not be used. Also ensure pallets are thoroughly cleaned.
Palletize cargo from the heaviest to the lightest. Distribute large and heavy objects from the center of the pallet outward to prevent the pallet from becoming heavy on one end. Doing this also helps maintain the center of balance at or near the center. Place lighter or smaller items on top of or beside the heavier cargo. Cargo with hazardous material labels must face outward whenever possible. Load hazardous cargo so that it is accessible to the aircrew and in such a manner to allow for ease of jettison.
Each pallet must have two deployment shipping placards displayed so they are readily visible to the aircrew while in flight. Place the placards in a clear plastic bag when attaching to the pallet. Other paperwork required in the package is: two packing lists of containers on pallet, three load lists plus an additional one on item, two shippers declaration forms (if required), four DD Form 1387-2, Special Handling Data/Certification forms, two of these will remain on the item.
This is the minimum requirement for the deployment phase. The same requirement is needed for the redeployment. Units will need to create a redeployment folder to accompany all equipment to deployed location.
Using these tips will help ensure units' cargo deploys and redeploys without any discrepancies. If unit representatives need further guidance or direction regarding deploying cargo, contact a cargo outreach program member at 963-3225.