What is required before stowing cargo on a military aircraft?

Cargo weight limits are a critical consideration before stowing cargo on a military aircraft because exceeding these limits can jeopardize the aircraft's performance, safety, and structural integrity. Each aircraft type has specific weight capacity and balance requirements that must be adhered to ensure safe flight operations. Understanding these limits helps aircrew members properly distribute weight throughout the aircraft, maintaining center of gravity within safe parameters, thereby reducing the risk of control issues during takeoff, flight, and landing.

Proper knowledge of cargo weight limits is essential for effective loading procedures and contributes to overall mission success by avoiding potential complications that could arise from improper loading practices. This foundational aspect of aircrew training emphasizes safety and operational efficiency in military flight operations.