Some of the risks associated with cargo shipping by plane are the occurrence of extreme weather conditions, accidental human error, and fire accidents.
FREMONT, CA: There are some risks associated with shipping cargo by plane, including human error, extreme weather, turbulence, cargo fires, and shipping hazardous materials. A combination of factors may influence outcomes, such as extreme weather, communication problems between the crew and the airport, and pilot error.
The turbulence: Especially if cargo is improperly secured or unsecured, turbulence can pose a safety risk to crew members. Fragile items can also be damaged by shifting cargo, which can cause breakage, scratches, and dents.
Weather extremes: Weather conditions such as heavy snowfall, high winds, and thunderstorms can cause cancellations and delays. Thunderstorms, in particular, can produce heavy rain, hail, high winds, and lightning, which can damage cargo and aircraft. Changes in weather conditions, such as ice, snow, and dust storms, can delay takeoff. Whether hot or cold, extreme temperatures can damage or spoil perishable and temperature-sensitive goods.
Hazardous materials: In spite of increased enforcement and oversight, undetected and undeclared cargo still poses a safety risk. Both cargo and passenger aircraft are permitted to carry hazardous goods when handled properly.
Cargo crime: Several factors contribute to cargo crime, including the shipping of pirated goods, smuggling, and theft. Among them are ineffective theft reporting systems, shortcomings in prosecution and transportation crime laws, and a lack of knowledge of cargo crime on the part of industry players and governments. Moreover, more effective technology is needed, such as high-speed screening devices, tamper-resistant and tamper-evident seals, and cargo tracking systems.
Errors by humans: Maintenance personnel, ground crew, and pilots are most often responsible for accidents and cargo damage. As a result of errors of judgment, distractions, and fatigue, incorrect decisions are made. Indiscipline and failure to follow instructions can also lead to human error. Delays and accidents can also be caused by documentation errors, mislabeling, and improper loading and unloading. The delivery of air freight can be delayed or prevented by errors in documentation, such as incomplete or incorrect information on declarations, customs documents, and labels.
Fire: A fire can occur for a variety of reasons, including storage conditions, packaging, and the nature of the goods being shipped. Among the many devices powered by lithium batteries are scooters, hoverboards, tools, electric toothbrushes, tablets, and mobile phones. It is possible for them to catch fire if they are transported in large quantities or if they are damaged or overheated. To prevent air freight accidents, it is also important to store and handle chemicals properly, including flammable gases and liquids. Paper-based and paper materials, Styrofoam, plastic containers, wooden pallets and crates, and cardboard boxes can all pose a fire hazard. Proper handling and labeling are essential to prevent fires.
