BS ISO 21785:2020

ISO 21785 defines the industry agreed to model for load distribution on air cargo unit load devices (ULD) bases to apply the maximum allowable centre of gravity (C.G.) eccentricity.

ISO 21785 purpose is to establish a common reference load distribution algorithm for:

• Comparable and repeatable ULD testing methods, or equivalent numeric simulations
• Aircraft structure and cargo systems design assumptions, consistent with existing airframes practices
• Definition of operator’s unit load devices utilization rules and cargo build-up training programs

ISO 21785 is applicable to non-airworthiness approved (non-certified) containers as defined in ISO 4118, the utilisation of which is controlled by the provisions of the aircraft type's Weight and Balance Manual and other airframe manufacturer's documents.

Who is ISO 21785 for?

ISO 21785 on Air cargo unit load devices is applicable to:

• Airworthiness regulatory authorities and organisations
• Aerospace manufacturers
• Air cargo manufacturers
• Civil aviation organisations
• Air cargo unit load devices Manufacturers
• Quality control engineers and accessors

Why should you use ISO 21785?

Air cargo unit loads carry heavy loads every day. It is imperative that their build quality is high in order to avoid accidents.

ISO 21785 is applicable to all types of unit load devices intended for use onboard civil transport aircraft and airworthiness approved in accordance with the performance requirements and testing parameters of either ISO 21100 or, as applicable, ISO 8097.

Following ISO 21785 design guidelines assists you in producing cost-effective and comprehensive quality air cargo unit load device (ULD) bases, as well as testing methodologies and operation procedures that meet standard requirements.

The civil aviation requirements provided ISO 21785 are necessary for the certification of transport aircraft and the appliances to be installed aboard them, and they comprise the set of design and operation requirements that have been internationally agreed upon in application of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Annex 8, Airworthiness of aircraft, to the Convention on International Civil Aviation.