UAM.OP.MVCA.160 Stowage of baggage and cargo

STOWAGE PROCEDURES The procedures established by the operator to ensure that baggage and cargo are adequately and securely stowed should take the following into account:

(a)each item should be stowed only at a location that can restrain it;

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

(c)under seat stowage 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 such equipment;

(d)baggage and cargo should not be placed at locations where they could impede access to emergency equipment.

CARRIAGE OF CARGO IN THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT The following should be observed when carrying cargo in the passenger compartment of a VCA:

(a)dangerous goods should not be allowed;

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

(c)the number/type of restraint devices and their attachment points should be capable of restraining the cargo; and

(d)the location of the cargo should be such that, in the event of an emergency evacuation, it will neither hinder egress nor impair the crew’s view.

THE TERM ‘CARGO’ The term ‘cargo’ in point UAM.OP.MVCA.160(b) refers to anything that belongs to a passenger travelling but is not a piece of luggage (e.g. a musical instrument that may have to be restrained to the seat). Thus, point UAM.OP.MVCA.160(b) does not provide for the use of the cabin as cargo compartment.