ISO 21100:2025

Air cargo unit load devices - Performance requirements and test parameters

This document specifies the minimum requirements for airworthiness approval of air cargo pallets, nets and containers, generally designated as air cargo unit load devices (ULD). This document is intended to provide a uniform technical reference for air cargo unit load devices approval. As a prerequisite, it is presupposed that the applicable general civil aviation requirements and the aircraft manufacturer’s approved Weight and Balance Manual are followed. This document defines the minimum performance requirements and test parameters for air cargo unit load devices requiring approval of airworthiness for installation in an approved aircraft cargo compartment and restraint system that complies with the cargo restraint and occupant protection requirements of CCAR 25, EASA CS-25 or 14 CFR Part 25, except for the 9,0 g forward ultimate inertia force of § 25.561 (b) (3) (ii). This document applies to airworthiness approved air cargo unit load devices intended for carriage on board civil transport category airplanes type certificated under CCAR 25, EASA CS-25 or 14 CFR Part 25, or equivalent. This document exclusively applies to unit load devices airworthiness approval and testing parameters. It does not apply to aircraft design or aircraft operating requirements, which are provided by the approved Weight and Balance Manual for each aircraft type. Other aspects that do not directly pertain to air cargo unit load devices airworthiness approval and testing are not covered by this document, e.g.: - ULD design specifications; - ULD in service damage limits; - ULD restraint malfunction limitations; - ULD test methods; - ULD load distribution models; - ULD maximum allowable contours; - ULD CG (centre for gravity) location control means; - ULD pressure equalization methods; - ULD utilization guidelines. NOTE The requirements for cargo covers are not defined in this document, except insofar as net restraint is incorporated therein.

Unités de charge de fret aérien — Exigences de performances et paramètres d'essai

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 12-Aug-2025
• ICS: 49.100 - Ground service and maintenance equipment
• ICS: 49.120 - Cargo equipment
• Technical Committee: ISO/TC 20/SC 9 - Air cargo and ground equipment
• Drafting Committee: ISO/TC 20/SC 9 - Air cargo and ground equipment
• Current Stage: 6060 - International Standard published
• Start Date: 13-Aug-2025
• Due Date: 05-Jun-2026
• Completion Date: 13-Aug-2025

Relations

• Revises: ISO 21100:2020 - Air cargo unit load devices - Performance requirements and test parameters
• Effective Date: 10-Jun-2023

Overview

ISO 21100:2025 - "Air cargo unit load devices - Performance requirements and test parameters" is an international standard that defines minimum airworthiness requirements and test parameters for air cargo unit load devices (ULDs): pallets, nets and containers. Intended as a uniform technical reference for ULD airworthiness approval, the standard applies to ULDs carried on civil transport airplanes certificated under CCAR 25, EASA CS‑25 or 14 CFR Part 25 (or equivalent). ISO 21100:2025 is the third edition and adds T and U sizes and associated restraint conditions.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Scope and applicability: Covers ULDs requiring airworthiness approval for installation in approved aircraft cargo compartments and restraint systems. Presupposes compliance with applicable civil aviation regulations and the aircraft manufacturer’s approved Weight and Balance Manual.
• Performance requirements: Minimum requirements for materials, fabrication, protection, construction, marking, inspection, fire protection, rapid decompression, dimensions/tolerances and strength.
• Strength and restraint: Defines ultimate load criteria, restraint criteria and base performance for pallets, nets and containers, including environmental degradation considerations.
• Test parameters: Specifies test requirements, parameters and how results are reported (test methods are referenced but detailed proprietary test procedures and some operational methods are outside scope).
• Classification and configurations: Classifies ULDs by type, size, configuration and form; provides detailed configuration definitions (A7, A8, B7, B8, G1, K4, L5, etc.) and associated restraint conditions.
• Restraint conditions: Details multiple restraint conditions (RC A1, A2, G, K, L, N, P, Q, R, T, U) for testing ULD restraint performance.
• Units and notation: Dimensions in millimetres (inches shown in brackets), forces in newtons (pound‑force shown in brackets).

Note: ISO 21100:2025 exclusively addresses ULD airworthiness approval and testing parameters. It does not cover aircraft design, operational requirements, detailed ULD design specifications, in‑service damage limits, load distribution models, CG control means, or utilization guidelines.

Practical applications - who uses this standard

• Airlines and cargo operators for ULD procurement and airworthiness compliance
• ULD manufacturers and fabricators for certification preparation
• Aircraft manufacturers and weight & balance engineers to ensure compatibility with cargo restraint systems
• Certification authorities and •airworthiness approval• organizations assessing ULD compliance
• Test laboratories performing ULD performance validation and reporting

Related standards and references

• CCAR 25, EASA CS‑25, 14 CFR Part 25 (transport category airplane certification)
• ICAO Annex 8 (Airworthiness of aircraft)
• ISO/TC 20/SC 9 (technical committee responsible for air cargo and ground equipment)

Keywords: ISO 21100:2025, air cargo unit load devices, ULD, airworthiness, performance requirements, test parameters, cargo restraint, pallets, containers, nets.

Standards Content (Sample)

International
Standard
ISO 21100
Third edition
Air cargo unit load devices —
2025-08
Performance requirements and test
parameters
Unités de charge de fret aérien — Exigences de performances et
paramètres d'essai
Reference number
© ISO 2025
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, or required in the context of its implementation, no part of this publication may
be reproduced or utilized otherwise in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, or posting on
the internet or an intranet, without prior written permission. Permission can be requested from either ISO at the address below
or ISO’s member body in the country of the requester.
ISO copyright office
CP 401 • Ch. de Blandonnet 8
CH-1214 Vernier, Geneva
Phone: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Website: www.iso.org
Published in Switzerland
ii
Contents Page
Foreword .v
Introduction .vi
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 2
4 Classification . 3
4.1 Types .3
4.2 Sizes .3
4.3 Configurations .3
4.4 Forms .4
4.5 Classification identifier .4
5 Performance requirements . . 4
5.1 Materials .4
5.2 Fabrication methods and workmanship .4
5.3 Protection .4
5.4 Construction .4
5.5 Marking .5
5.6 Inspection provisions .5
5.7 Fire protection .5
5.8 Rapid decompression.5
5.9 Dimensions and tolerances . .5
5.10 Strength .5
5.10.1 Ultimate load criteria .5
5.10.2 Restraint criteria.6
5.10.3 Pallets and nets.6
5.10.4 Base performance .6
5.11 Environmental degradation .7
6 Tests . 7
6.1 Test requirements.7
6.2 Test parameters .7
6.3 Test methods .7
6.4 Test results .7
7 Additional information . 7
7.1 Intended use .7
7.2 Unit load device capacities .7
7.3 Container contours .8
7.4 Pallet configurations .8
8 Unit load device configurations . 8
8.1 General .8
8.2 ULD configuration A7 .9
8.3 ULD configuration A8 .10
8.4 ULD configuration B7 .11
8.5 ULD configuration B8 . 12
8.6 ULD configuration G1 .14
8.7 ULD configuration K4 .16
8.8 ULD configuration L5 .17
8.9 ULD configuration L6 .18
8.10 ULD configuration M4 .19
8.11 ULD configuration M5 . 20
8.12 ULD configuration N1 . . 22
8.13 ULD configuration P1 . 23
8.14 ULD configuration Q1 . 23

iii
8.15 ULD configuration R1 .24
8.16 ULD configuration S1 . . 26
8.17 ULD configuration T1 .27
8.18 ULD configuration U1 . 28
9 Testing restraint conditions .29
9.1 General . 29
9.2 Restraint condition (RC) A1 . 30
9.3 Restraint condition (RC) A2 .32
9.4 Restraint condition (RC) G . 33
9.5 Restraint condition (RC) K . 35
9.6 Restraint condition (RC) L .37
9.7 Restraint condition (RC) N . 39
9.8 Restraint condition (RC) P .41
9.9 Restraint condition (RC) Q.42
9.10 Restraint condition (RC) R . 44
9.11 Restraint condition (RC) T . 46
9.12 Restraint condition (RC) U.47
Bibliography .50

iv
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out through
ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical committee
has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International organizations,
governmental and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work. ISO collaborates closely
with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are described
in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular, the different approval criteria needed for the different types
of ISO document should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the editorial rules of the
ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www.iso.org/directives).
ISO draws attention to the possibility that the implementation of this document may involve the use of (a)
patent(s). ISO takes no position concerning the evidence, validity or applicability of any claimed patent
rights in respect thereof. As of the date of publication of this document, ISO had not received notice of (a)
patent(s) which may be required to implement this document. However, implementers are cautioned that
this may not represent the latest information, which may be obtained from the patent database available at
www.iso.org/patents. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation of the voluntary nature of standards, the meaning of ISO specific terms and expressions
related to conformity assessment, as well as information about ISO's adherence to the World Trade
Organization (WTO) principles in the Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), see www.iso.org/iso/foreword.html.
This document was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 20, Aircraft and space vehicles, Subcommittee
SC 9, Air cargo and ground equipment.
This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition (ISO 21100:2020), which has been
technically revised.
The main changes are as follows:
— addition of T and U size and their respective restraint conditions.
Any feedback or questions on this document should be directed to the user’s national standards body. A
complete listing of these bodies can be found at www.iso.org/members.html.

v
Introduction
This document specifies the performance and testing requirements for approved (certified) cargo unit
load devices (containers, pallets and nets) intended to be used for cargo restraint on board civil transport
aircraft.
The civil aviation requirements referred to in this document are those concerning certification of transport
aircraft and appliances to be installed aboard them and constitute the set of design and operation
requirements internationally agreed in application of International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)
Annex 8, Airworthiness of aircraft, to the Convention on International Civil Aviation. This document provides
one means of compliance for unit load devices.
Dimensions and tolerances are expressed in millimetres, with dimensions in inches shown between
brackets. The nominal values of outer unit load device base dimensions are those expressed in inches. Forces
are expressed in newtons, with forces in pound-force shown between brackets.
Air cargo unit load devices qualified prior to publication of the first edition of this document were approved
in accordance with the requirements of ISO 8097:2001. This document is intended as a TSO (Technical
Standard Order) approval reference for all new models of unit load devices in the sizes and types it covers,
in replacement of ISO 8097. For air cargo unit load devices, the size or type of which is not covered in
this document, see the requirements of ISO 8097:2001, if their size or type is contained therein, or other
equivalent criteria, if not.
NOTE ISO 8097 is based on USA National Aerospace Standard NAS 3610 revision 10:1990, Specification for Cargo
Unit Load Devices.
vi
International Standard ISO 21100:2025(en)
Air cargo unit load devices — Performance requirements and
test parameters
1 Scope
This document specifies the minimum requirements for airworthiness approval of air cargo pallets, nets
and containers, generally designated as air cargo unit load devices (ULD).
This document is intended to provide a uniform technical reference for air cargo unit load devices approval.
As a prerequisite, it is presupposed that the applicable general civil aviation requirements and the aircraft
manufacturer’s approved Weight and Balance Manual are followed.
This document defines the minimum performance requirements and test parameters for air cargo unit load
devices requiring approval of airworthiness for installation in an approved aircraft cargo compartment and
restraint system that complies with the cargo restraint and occupant protection requirements of CCAR 25,
EASA CS-25 or 14 CFR Part 25, except for the 9,0 g forward ultimate inertia force of § 25.561 (b) (3) (ii).
This document applies to airworthiness approved air cargo unit load devices intended for carriage on
board civil transport category airplanes type certificated under CCAR 25, EASA CS-25 or 14 CFR Part 25, or
equivalent.
This document exclusively applies to unit load devices airworthiness approval and testing parameters. It
does not apply to aircraft design or aircraft operating requirements, which are provided by the approved
Weight and Balance Manual for each aircraft type.
Other aspects that do not directly pertain to air cargo unit load devices airworthiness approval and testing
are not covered by this document, e.g.:
— ULD design specifications;
— ULD in service damage limits;
— ULD restraint malfunction limitations;
— ULD test methods;
— ULD load distribution models;
— ULD maximum allowable contours;
— ULD CG (centre for gravity) location control means;
— ULD pressure equalization methods;
— ULD utilization guidelines.
NOTE The requirements for cargo covers are not defined in this document, except insofar as net restraint is
incorporated therein.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content constitutes
requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references,
the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO 7166, Aircraft — Rail and stud configuration for passenger equipment and cargo restraint

ISO 9788, Air cargo — Double stud tie-down fittings — Design and testing requirements
ISO 10046, Aircraft — Methodology of calculating cargo compartment volumes
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminology databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https:// www .iso .org/ obp
— IEC Electropedia: available at https:// www .electropedia .org/
3.1
base edge
outer perimeter of a unit load device (3.8), interfacing with the aircraft restraint system (3.7), ensuring the
required performance with contribution of adjacent parts of the complete unit load device
3.2
container
rigid structure which interfaces directly with the aircraft cargo handling and restraint system
(3.7) and alone performs all the functions of a unit load device (3.8)
3.3
cover
layer made of flexible material, used to protect cargo on a pallet (3.6)
Note 1 to entry: It may or may not incorporate a pallet net (3.4) or be permanently attached to one. If a net is
incorporated or permanently attached to the cover, the performance and testing requirements applicable to nets in
this document are applicable to the net/cover assembly.
3.4
net
webbing or rope net for restraining load onto an air cargo pallet (3.6)
3.5
numeric simulation
simulation of physical test condition and reaction of unit load device (3.8) employing numerical analysis,
computational geometry and computer graphics to obtain proof support and design verification, validated
by demonstration that parameters, algorithms and analytical methods used provide results of at least
equivalent reliability to the outcome of a specified actual test
3.6
pallet
unit load device (3.8) consisting of a flat platform with a flat undersurface of standard dimensions,
on which goods are assembled and secured by a net (3.4) before being loaded as a unit onto the aircraft, and
which interfaces directly with the aircraft handling and restraint system (3.7)
3.7
restraint system
equipment for supporting and restraining unit load devices (3.8) in an aircraft against the ground/flight loads
Note 1 to entry: It usually consists of such items as rollers, side guides, and locks for securing unit load devices to the
aircraft structure. It does not include unit load devices, barrier nets (3.4) and tie-down straps.
3.8
unit load device
ULD
device for grouping, transferring and restraining cargo for transit
Note 1 to entry: It may consist of a pallet (3.6) with a net (3.4) or it may be a container (3.2).

4 Classification
4.1 Types
Type 1 (for reference only): Unit load devices (ULDs) designed for use in an approved aircraft restraint system
that conforms to all flight and ground cargo restraint and occupant protection requirements of CCAR-25,
EASA CS-25 or 14 CFR Part 25, including the 9,0 g forward ultimate inertia force of § 25.561 (b)(3)(ii).
NOTE Type 1 ULDs are not shown in this document. Refer to ISO 8097:2001 (NAS 3610 revision 10).
Type 2: ULDs designed for use in an approved aircraft cargo compartment and restraint system that
conforms to the flight and ground cargo restraint and occupant protection requirements of CCAR-25, JAS
Part 3, EASA CS-25 or 14 CFR Part 25, except for the 9,0 g forward ultimate inertia force of § 25.561(b) (3) (ii),
which is complied with either by supplementary installation of a barrier net or bulkhead, or by specifying an
approved placement of the ULD in the aircraft.
4.2 Sizes
This document provides for the sizes of unit load devices listed in Table 1, expressed as nominal dimensions
in the overall plan form of a pallet or a container base, in mm (inches).
NOTE Throughout this document, dimensions are expressed in SI units, with inch/pound system values
additionally shown between brackets in order to conform to international air cargo industry usage.
Table 1 — Sizes
Size Nominal dimension
A 2 235 mm × 3 175 mm (88 in × 125 in)
B 2 235 mm × 2 743 mm (88 in × 108 in)
G 2 438 mm × 6 058 mm (96 in × 238,5 in)
K 1 534 mm × 1 562 mm (60,4 in × 61,5 in)
L 1 534 mm × 3 175 mm (60,4 in × 125 in)
M 2 438 mm × 3 175 mm (96 in × 125 in)
N 1 562 mm × 2 438 mm (61,5 in × 96 in)
P 1 198 mm × 1 534 mm (47 in × 60,4 in)
Q 1 534 mm × 2 438 mm (60,4 in × 96 in)
R 2 438 mm × 4 978 mm (96 in × 196 in)
S 1 562 mm × 2 235 mm (61,5 in × 88 in)
T 3 175 mm × 4 978 mm (125 in × 196 in)
U 1 397 mm × 2 438 mm (55 in × 96 in)
NOTE Size codes C, D, E, F, H, I, J, O have been intentionally omitted in
this document in order to be in agreement with the industry's (IATA ULD
Regulations) identification coding system.
4.3 Configurations
4.3.1 This document provides for variations of configuration among pallets, nets and containers of the
same type and size, specified in Clause 8 and listed in Table 2. Variations in pallet/net attachment and
special interface requirements between components of unit load devices when affecting airworthiness are
specified by the configuration drawings. Configurations are denoted by sequence numbers and are identified
in accordance with 4.5.
4.3.2 The applicable restraint conditions to be used for testing each unit load device configuration are
specified in Clause 9 and listed in Table 18, based on testing of worst-case analysis.

4.3.3 The ULD restraint conditions and ultimate loads included herein are intended to represent a worst-
case capability for the ULD. They are not intended to represent aircraft cargo handling system restraint
designs. Actual aircraft implementations may vary from the ULD test parameters stated herein in such
areas as number and spacing of restraints, among others, as long as they stay within the worst-case ULD
capabilities.
4.4 Forms
Form C = container
Form N = net
Form P = pallet
4.5 Classification identifier
The pallets, nets, and containers described in this document shall be identified by the numbers derived
as shown. Types, sizes, configurations, and forms shall be limited to those in configuration drawings.
“ISO 21100 -2A7P” = Type 2, Size A (2 235 mm × 3 175 mm, 88 in × 125 in), Configuration sequence A7, Pallet.
Where a given unit is to be tested and approved in reference to two separate configurations, both
configurations shall be identified, for example:
— ISO 21100 2A7P/2A8P = Type 2, Size A (2 235 mm × 3 175 mm, 88 in × 125 in), Configuration sequence
A7 and A8, Pallet; or
— ISO 21100 2A7N/2M4N = Type 2, Size A (2 235 mm × 3 175 mm, 88 in × 125 in) or Size M
(2 438 mm × 3 175 mm, 96 in × 125 in), Configuration sequence A7 and M4, Net.
5 Performance requirements
5.1 Materials
The suitability and durability of materials used shall be established on the basis of experience or tests.
Materials shall conform to approved industry specifications that ensure their having the strength and other
properties specified in the design data.
5.2 Fabrication methods and workmanship
The methods of fabrication used shall produce a consistently sound structure. If the fabrication processes
(such as gluing or heat treatment) require close control to reach their objectives, the processes shall be
performed under an approved process specification. Workmanship shall be consistent with high-grade
aircraft manufacturing practices.
5.3 Protection
All components of the unit load devices shall be protected against deterioration or loss of strength in
service due to weathering, corrosion, abrasion or other causes where the type of material used requires
such protection. The unit load device shall have provisions for ventilation or drainage where necessary for
protection.
5.4 Construction
The unit load device shall be constructed to encompass the cargo and shall provide for proper support
and restraint of the cargo. All components shall be designed to withstand rough handling. The design
shall minimize the possibility of improper installation. All pallet/net attachment devices shall conform to
ISO 7166 track and stud configuration for single stud fittings and ISO 9788 for double stud fittings.

5.5 Marking
Each pallet, net, and container shall be legibly and permanently marked in an area clearly visible after the
article is loaded with cargo, with the following information:
a) the name and address of the manufacturer;
b) the mass of the article to the nearest kilogram or pound, with the applicable unit;
c) the serial number and date of manufacture;
d) the part number of the article and its identification in the code system set out in 4.5;
e) if the article is not omni-directional, the words “FORWARD”, “AFT”, and “SIDE” shall be conspicuously placed;
f) the burning rate determined for the article under 5.7;
g) the applicable TSO (Technical Standard Order) approval number;
h) any limitations or restrictions.
5.6 Inspection provisions
There shall be means to allow close examination of each part requiring inspection, adjustment, or lubrication.
5.7 Fire protection
It is presupposed that the materials used in the construction of pallets, nets, and containers meet the
appropriate provisions set forth in CCAR-25, JAS Part 3, EASA CS-25 or 14 CFR Part 25 Appendix F.
5.8 Rapid decompression
Unit load devices shall be designed to protect the airplane structure and the occupants as result of a sudden
release of pressure. The suitability of the design shall be established by analysis and/or tests or numeric
simulation. ISO 11242 specifies the requirements and possible methods.
5.9 Dimensions and tolerances
Each pallet, net, and container of a given configuration shall conform to the requirements specified by the
drawing for that configuration. General tolerances for all configuration drawings, unless otherwise noted,
are ±0,01 mm for two places decimals, ±0,1 mm for one place decimals, ±1 mm without a decimal (in inches:
±0,01 in for three place decimals, ±0,03 in for two place decimals, ±0,1 in for one place decimals).
5.10 Strength
5.10.1 Ultimate load criteria
5.10.1.1 Ultimate loads for each unit load device configuration are specified in the page defining that
configuration. These loads shall be considered as acting separately, except as noted, and shall be applied in
accordance with the specified centre of gravity limits, which shall be taken into account simultaneously.
5.10.1.2 Longitudinal eccentricity is expressed in percentage of the longitudinal dimension of a pallet or
container base, and it is measured from the lateral centreline of the pallet or container base. Longitudinal
dimensions correspond to the forward and aft directions specified by the plan views in applicable figures.
5.10.1.3 Lateral eccentricity is expressed in percentage of the lateral dimension of a pallet or container
base, and it is measured from its longitudinal centreline. Plus and minus signs indicate forward and aft
directions from the lateral centreline, and right and left directions from the longitudinal centreline of the
pallet or container base respectively.

5.10.1.4 Centre of gravity height is expressed in mm (inches) above the bottom surface of pallet or
container base.
5.10.2 Restraint criteria
Restraint system details for each restraint condition are specified by the figure referenced in restraint
drawing. Tolerances for the restraint system are the same as those specified in 5.9 for configuration
drawings.
5.10.3 Pallets and nets
5.10.3.1 If a pallet (or net) is to be substantiated individually, a qualified net (or pallet) of the same
configuration code may be assumed for analysis or used for test. A qualified and compatible net (or pallet)
of different configuration code may be used provided it equals or exceeds the strength requirements of the
pallet (or net) being substantiated. For substantiating a net, any net tensioning devices shall be engaged: a
pallet doesn't need to be used for testing, provided that all net fittings are at the locations specified in the
unit load device configuration.
5.10.3.2 Pallet edge tracks and net fittings shall conform to the geometric and tolerance requirements of
ISO 7166 and in the case of double stud fittings, ISO 9788, or equivalent with at least equal ultimate strength.
5.10.3.3 All net fittings incorporating a single tie-down stud for attachment to pallets shall have a minimum
ultimate load capacity of 8 900 N (2 000 lbf) in all directions, horizontal to vertical. Double stud tie-down
fittings shall have a minimum ultimate load capacity of 17 800 N (4 000 lbf) in all directions, horizontal to
vertical. The load application point shall be 21 mm (0,83 in) or less from the head end of the stud.
5.10.3.4 All track-type single stud tie down receptacles incorporated in the pallet construction shall have
a minimum ultimate load capacity of 8 900 N (2 000 lbf) in all directions, horizontal to vertical. The load
application point shall be 23 mm (0,90 in) or more from the bottom of the track groove.
5.10.3.5 It is presupposed that pallets edge tracks withstand without rupture an ultimate load of 22 250 N
(5 000 lbf) applied in any direction through a double stud fitting meeting the requirements of ISO 9788, for
a duration of 3 seconds in accordance with CCAR-25, JAS Part 3, EASA CS-25 or 14 CFR Part 25 § 25.305 (b).
The load application point shall be 23 mm (0,90 in) or more from the bottom of the track groove.
5.10.4 Base performance
5.10.4.1 Minimum base area loads for each unit load device configuration are specified in the page defining
that configuration. These loads shall be applicable to any area representing at least 10 % of the total base
area, while the unit load device is supported by the aircraft system. All unit load devices (containers or
pallets) bases shall have a minimum area load capacity of 10 kPa (209 lbf/ft ).
7 2 6 2
5.10.4.2 All pallet base edges shall have a minimum vertical EI value of 5 × 10 N·cm (1,75 × 10 lbf·in ).
5.10.4.3 All container base edges shall have a uniform cross section and a minimum vertical EI value of
7 2 6 2
5 × 10 N·cm (1,75 × 10 lbf·in ). However, the doorway side base edge of 1 562 mm (61,5 in) or less wide
7 2 5 2
containers shall have a uniform cross section and a minimum EI value of 2,5 × 10 N cm (8,75 × 10 lbf·in ).
Local deviations in uniformity are allowable at specific locations (e.g. corner fittings, identification recesses,
track tie-down receptacles, forklift tine ways, or similar).
5.10.4.4 All ULD base edge profiles shall be rounded or chamfered in order to ensure a smooth interface
with aircraft unit load device conveyance and restraint systems.

5.11 Environmental degradation
The materials used in the construction of pallets, nets, and containers shall take into account the effects
of environment conditions, such as temperature, humidity, and UV (ultraviolet) degradation, expected in
service.
6 Tests
6.1 Test requirements
Tests and/or analysis or numeric simulation shall be conducted as necessary to show conformity with this
document.
6.2 Test parameters
Tests for any given ULD configuration shall be conducted using the maximum ultimate loads and centre of
gravity deviations shown in this document for that ULD configuration, with the ULD being restrained in
accordance with the indicated testing restraint condition(s). Analysis or numeric simulation, if used, shall
use the same assumptions.
6.3 Test methods
The method(s) used for testing any ULD configuration shall ensure conformity with the testing conditions
and ultimate load parameters specified for that configuration in this document. It is presupposed that the
ultimate load is applied in each specified direction for a minimum duration of 3 s, in accordance with CCAR-
25, JAS Part 3, EASA CS-25 or 14 CFR Part 25 § 25.305 (b). Analysis or numeric simulation, if used, shall
provide an equivalent assurance of conformity guarantee. A test and/or analysis report shall be established
to record the details of the method(s) used and substantiate the results obtained.
NOTE When two ULD sides (e.g. opposite ones) and the corresponding restraint conditions are identical, testing
can be performed on one side only.
6.4 Test results
Under ultimate load, the tested ULD or parts thereof may exhibit damage or permanent deformation but
shall not deform or rupture to the extent of discharging its contents. Analysis or numeric simulation, if used,
shall confirm that the ULD would not deform or rupture to the extent its contents would be discharged
under the test conditions.
7 Additional information
7.1 Intended use
Type 2 nets, pallets, and containers (ULDs) described in this document are intended for use only in an
approved aircraft cargo compartment and restraint system where compliance with the 9,0 g forward
ultimate inertia force of CCAR-25, JAS Part 3, EASA CS-25 or 14 CFR Part 25 § 25.561 (b)(3)(ii) is achieved
either by supplementary installation of a barrier net or bulkhead, or by specified approved placement of the
ULD in the aircraft.
NOTE Type 1 ULDs are not shown in this document. Refer to ISO 8097:2001 (NAS 3610 revision 10).
7.2 Unit load device capacities
Maximum gross mass capacities are not shown for the unit load devices covered by this document. Actual
gross mass limits for devices in a given airplane are determined in compliance with CCAR-25, JAS Part 3,
EASA CS-25 or 14 CFR Part 25 and listed in the approved Weight and Balance Manual for that airplane.

7.3 Container contours
Performance and testing parameters are independent from container contours, which hence are not shown
in this document. Maximum allowable container contours shall provide clearance from the relevant aircraft
cargo compartment's inner envelope. Contours shall be determined for the intended aircraft types or
compartments in accordance with ISO 10046.
7.4 Pallet configurations
Pallet configuration drawings indicate net attachment points. Continuous edge track is allowable all around
the pallet's periphery, except where differently noted.
8 Unit load device configurations
8.1 General
Unit load devices configurations, characteristics, and ultimate load capacities shall conform to the relevant
ULD configuration subclause. See Table 2.
NOTE 1 The net attachment points shown on ULD configuration drawings do not, or not entirely, apply to containers.
NOTE 2 Configuration drawings are not on scale.
Table 2 — ULD configurations
ULD configuration Type Applicable to: Nominal base dimensions Minimum base Subclause
area load
(UC) C P N mm (inches) kPa (lbf/ft )
A7 2 X X X 2 235 × 3 175 (88 × 125) 10 (209) 8.2
A8 2 X X 2 235 × 3 175 (88 × 125) 10 (209) 8.3
B7 2 X X X 2 235 × 2 743 (88 × 108) 10 (209) 8.4

B8 2 X X 2 235 × 2 743 (88 × 108) 10 (209) 8.5
G1 2 X X X 2 438 × 6 058 (96 × 238,5) 20 (418) 8.6
K4 2 X X X 1 534 × 1 562 (60,4 × 61,5) 10 (209) 8.7

L5 2 X X X 1 534 × 3 175 (60,4 × 125) 10 (209) 8.8
L6 2 X X 1 534 × 3 175 (60,4 × 125) 10 (209) 8.9
M4 2 X X X 2 438 × 3 175 (96 × 125) 10 (209) 8.10

M5 2 X X 2 438 × 3 175 (96 × 125) 10 (209) 8.11
N1 2 X X X 1 562 × 2 438 (61,5 × 96) 10 (209) 8.12
P1 2 X 1 198 × 1 534 (47 × 60,4) 10 (209) 8.13

Q1 2 X X X 1 534 × 2 438 (60,4 × 96) 10 (209) 8.14
R1 2 X X X 2 438 × 4 978 (96 × 196) 20 (418) 8.15
S1 2 X X X 1 562 × 2 235 (61,5 × 88) 10 (209) 8.16
NOTE ULD configuration sequence codes A7, A8, B7, B8, K4, L5, L6, M4, M5 were assigned in order to differentiate from former
ISO 8097 (NAS 3610) ULD configurations, with non-identical maximum CG eccentricities and/or with non-identical lateral
ultimate load criteria.
TTabablele 2 2 ((ccoonnttiinnueuedd))
ULD configuration Type Applicable to: Nominal base dimensions Minimum base Subclause
area load
(UC) C P N mm (inches) kPa (lbf/ft )

T1 2 X X X 3 175 × 4 978 (125 × 196) 20 (418) 8.17
U1 2 X X X 1 397 × 2 438 (55 × 96) 10 (209) 8.18
NOTE ULD configuration sequence codes A7, A8, B7, B8, K4, L5, L6, M4, M5 were assigned in order to differentiate from former
ISO 8097 (NAS 3610) ULD configurations, with non-identical maximum CG eccentricities and/or with non-identical lateral
ultimate load criteria.
8.2 ULD configuration A7
Unit load device A7 configuration consists of the following characteristics and ultimate load capacities. See
Table 3 and Figure 1.
Nominal base size 2 235 mm × 3 175 mm (88 in × 125 in) — Type 2.
Applicable to: containers, pallets, nets Minimum base area load: 10 kPa (209 lbf/ft )
Table 3 — Ultimate load criteria
Ultimate loads CG height CG eccentricity
a
N (lbf) mm (in) %
Forward Aft Side Up Down Maximum Longitudinal Lateral
100 000 100 000 100 000 169 000 340 000 1 219 ±10 ±10
(22 500) (22 500) (22 500) (38 000) (76 500) (48) ±10 ±10
a
For containers and nets, 55 % of maximum height, limited to the maximum sh
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