When shipping cargo via air, one popular aircraft option is the iconic Boeing 767. First introduced in 1982, this commonly known wide-body jet airliner is considered to be an efficient, cost-effective shipping solution. Today, companies such as FedEx, UPS and Amazon continue to use Boeing 767s to transport freight.
Time and Manpower Needed
Loading and off-loading an aircraft the size of a Boeing 767 is a daunting task. It takes the right equipment and the right people. Here at Grand Aire, we have both.
If loading cargo onto the plane, it must first be skillfully removed from the truck(s) carrying the cargo. The goods being shipped arrive prepackaged in containers or stacked on pallets. Line agents then prepare the freight to be shipped and arrange it inside the aircraft.
When unloading, the process is reversed, and freight is removed from the airplane and loaded onto waiting truck(s).
On average, it takes 1-2 ½ hours to get the cargo off the truck(s), wrap the containers or pallets in cargo netting and loaded onto the 767 or vice versa. Whichever direction the goods are going, it takes up to 5 employees and some pretty dependable equipment to complete the job.
Necessary Equipment
Due to the size and weight of the cargo, a Commander 30 main deck loader (MDL) will be utilized for both loading and unloading of the cargo from the aircraft. A forklift is necessary to move the cargo onto or off the lower deck of the MDL. Cargo dollies can also be used for this purpose.
With the Commander 30, large containers or pallets, referred to as ULDs (unit load device) are loaded or unloaded with the use of its two platforms which raise or lower independently. This allows for freight to be moved from ground level to the higher load level, making for a safer operation.
The advantage of using ULDs in the shipping process is that they enable a large quantity of goods to be consolidated into a single unit. This leads to quicker load/off-loads, thus saving time and ultimately money.
Cargo is moved on or off the plane with the help of built-in rollers found on both platforms of the MDL. The MDL is a versatile piece of equipment because it allows large quantities of freight to be loaded or off-loaded quickly.
Loading and Off-loading Challenges
Like any substantial undertaking, handling cargo has its challenges. Securing ample ramp space, for example, can be taxing. The timeliness of freight arrival can cause delays. Improperly working rollers on the aircraft itself can cause major headaches.
And let’s not forget Mother Nature. If she dumps a few inches of snow or rain on NW Ohio, we suddenly have a new hurdle to overcome. Regardless of the unexpected challenge, however, Grand Aire is up for the task!
Count on Us
Let us put our experience and expertise to work for you. We handle both air and ground transportation for cargo loads of all sizes. For questions or to request a quote, simply give us a call at 1-800-70-GRAND. Or email our team directly at logistics@grandaire.com.
