SAE AS1677

Description / Abstract: This SAE Aerospace Standard (AS) covers the design, fabrication, performance and operational testing requirements for lower deck containers for use in main line aircraft which do not require airworthiness certification when loaded under the conditions of compartment restraint and in accordance with the aircraft's Weight and Balance Manual and/or, where applicable according to the aircraft type's approved Weight and Balance Manual, AS36100A or NAS 3610 equivalent base plate restraint for these containers.

Most sizes of containers covered by this document (base sizes K, L, P, and Q) cannot physically be loaded and latched on aircraft main deck cargo systems. Base size A and M containers can, but are not allowed on aircraft main decks, which do not accept non-certified units. Accordingly, all containers covered by this document are to be used/installed exclusively in aircraft lower deck compartments.

IATA 50/0, "ULD General technical requirements", should also be taken into account when designing and making equipment.

Purpose

This document provides dimensional, structural, and environmental criteria for cargo/baggage containers tailored to meet the lower deck configuration of the main line aircraft. See AIR1869 for information relative to lower deck container configurations. The minimum essential criteria are identified by the use of the key word "shall". Recommended criteria are identified by the use of the key word "should", and while not mandatory, are considered to be of primary importance in providing serviceable, economical, and practical air transport containers. Deviation from recommended criteria should occur only after careful consideration, extensive testing, and thorough service evaluation have shown alternate methods to be satisfactory.