# Air Cargo Types: General, Special, Dangerous Goods, and ULD Use

> Study air-cargo classification, special-handling categories, dangerous-goods classes, and ULD applications for efficient and compliant loading.

- **Subject:** 031 — Mass and Balance
- **Section:** 031-06 — Cargo Handling
- **Topic code:** 031-06-01
- **Last reviewed:** 2026-04-01
- **Author:** Pablo Asensio Martínez
- **HTML version:** https://pilotsyllabus.com/en/mass-and-balance/cargo-handling/types-of-cargo/

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## General Cargo
Standard freight that does not require special handling or precautions (e.g., clothes, machinery parts).

![Boeing 747-200F nose loading door open](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/4c/AirBridgeCargo_Airlines_Boeing_747-200F_nose_loading_door_open_and_cargo_loader_at_Sheremetyevo_International_Airport.jpg)

## Special Cargo
Requires specific handling, loading, or notification procedures.
*   **Live Animals (AVI)**: Requires ventilation, temperature control, and specific container types. IATA Live Animals Regulations (LAR) apply.
*   **Perishables (PER)**: Food, flowers, etc. May require refrigeration.
*   **Human Remains (HUM)**: Transported in coffins or urns.
*   **Valuables (VAL)**: High-value items requiring security escort.
*   **Heavy Cargo (HEA)**: Exceeds standard weight limits per piece, requiring special loading equipment.

## Dangerous Goods (DG)
Articles or substances capable of posing a risk to health, safety, property, or the environment.
*   Regulated by **ICAO Technical Instructions** and **IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR)**.
*   Classes:
    1.  Explosives
    2.  Gases
    3.  Flammable Liquids
    4.  Flammable Solids
    5.  Oxidizing Substances
    6.  Toxic/Infectious Substances
    7.  Radioactive Material
    8.  Corrosives
    9.  Miscellaneous (e.g., Lithium batteries)

## Unit Load Devices (ULD)
Standardized containers or pallets used to consolidate cargo.

![Aircraft cargo ULD loader in operation](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/2f/Aircraft_cargo_%28ULD%29_loader_in_operaton.jpg)

*   **Pallets**: Flat aluminum bases with nets.
*   **Containers (AKE, AKH)**: Enclosed aluminum/fiberglass boxes shaped to fit the aircraft hold.
*   **Benefits**: Faster loading/unloading, protection of cargo, efficient space utilization.

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