Maximum Dimensions and Loading Charts

The dimensions of cargo must pass through the compartment door to be accommodated in the hold.
The size of cargo must be compared with the compartment door size by using loading charts.
A loading chart is a guideline for loose cargo only in case of
- oversized cargo
- items that approach the maximum dimensions indicated,
- heavy bulky items, which may require spreader boards for weight spreading.
Different aircraft types use different loading chart.

Loading charts show the basic width and basic height, and at the intersection of any two of those dimensions, the maximum permitted length.
The basic width, basic height, and resulting maximum length are given in centimeters.
All dimensions are based on upright position.
Always refer to airlines to confirm acceptance of cargo.

Select the correct loading chart. Eg. Boeing B737-800 Forward Compartment.
Start with the width of your package, find the right column. These are maxima.
Find the height of your package in the correct row.
Where your selected column and row meet you will find a number. This number represent the maximum lenght of your package to make it fit into this aircraft.
Dimensions of cargo must be indicated in the following sequence
- Length x Width x Height
- Specify the unit of measurement used: cm or inches. •
- Eg. Cargo dims: L 245 x W 62 x H 74 cm 3.
Tilting permitted?

Step 2:

2.1. Look at the top of the loading chart under width.
- Eg. A cargo dims: L 245 x W 62 x H 74cm
- No width for 62 cm, go to the next higher column, 63 cm.
2.2. Go to the left-hand side of the loading chart under height. • No height of 74 cm, the next higher line, 76 cm

The maximum permissible length at the intersection of width 63 cm & height 76 cm is 213 cm.

Step 3:

3.1. Tilting allowed? • Width (62 cm) becomes height (74 cm). • Height (74 cm) becomes width (62 cm).
3.2. Repeat Step 2.

Note: If the package is marked/labeled This Side Up, cannot be tilted.