CAT.OP.MPA.160 Stowage of baggage and cargo

STOWAGE PROCEDURES Procedures established by the operator to ensure that hand baggage and cargo are adequately and securely stowed should take account of the following:

(a)each item carried in a cabin should be stowed only in a location that is capable of restraining it;

(b)weight limitations placarded on or adjacent to stowages should not be exceeded;

(c)under seat stowages should not be used unless the seat is equipped with a restraint bar and the baggage is of such size that it may adequately be restrained by this equipment;

(d)items should not be stowed in lavatories or against bulkheads that are incapable of restraining articles against movement forwards, sideways or upwards and unless the bulkheads carry a placard specifying the greatest mass that may be placed there;

(e)baggage and cargo placed in lockers should not be of such size that they prevent latched doors from being closed securely;

(f)baggage and cargo should not be placed where it can impede access to emergency equipment; and

(g)checks should be made before take-off, before landing and whenever the ‘fasten seat belts’ signs are illuminated or it is otherwise so ordered to ensure that baggage is stowed where it cannot impede evacuation from the aircraft or cause injury by falling (or other movement), as may be appropriate to the phase of flight.

CARRIAGE OF CARGO IN THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT The following should be observed before carrying cargo in the passenger compartment:

(a)for aeroplanes:

(1)dangerous goods should not be allowed; and

(2)a mix of passengers and live animals should only be allowed for pets weighing not more than 8 kg and guide dogs;

(b)for aeroplanes and helicopters:

(1)the mass of cargo should not exceed the structural loading limits of the floor or seats;

(2)the number/type of restraint devices and their attachment points should be capable of restraining the cargo in accordance with applicable Certification Specifications; and

(3)the location of the cargo should be such that, in the event of an emergency evacuation, it will not hinder egress nor impair the crew’s view.