Classification of cargo aircraft in air transportation

Currently, the demand for air transportation is rapidly increasing. To timely meet this demand from businesses, many specialized aircraft for cargo transport have been developed. Let's explore the common types of cargo aircraft today.

I. Common Types of Cargo Aircraft in Air Transportation There are three types of aircraft serving cargo in the aviation industry:

1. Passenger and Cargo Aircraft (Passenger Aircraft/Passenger Flight - PAX): This type of aircraft can carry both passengers and cargo on the same flight. Cargo is stored in the belly of the aircraft, while the remaining space is reserved for passengers. The regulations regarding the size and weight of each piece of cargo vary by airline and are strictly controlled.

   The Boeing 737 MAX, which Vietjet Air has recently signed to purchase an additional 100 units, is the successor to the Boeing 737 Next Generation (NG). The advantages of the Boeing 737 MAX include reduced fuel consumption and lower noise compared to its predecessor.

   

    

2. Freighter (F)/Cargo Aircraft Only (CAO): This type of aircraft is specifically designed for cargo transport. The aircraft only carries the crew and cargo. Both the main deck and the belly are used for carrying goods. Typically, airlines use narrow-body and wide-body aircraft for convenient cargo transport. Currently, the majority of aircraft used in Vietnam are wide-body.

   Although these are cargo aircraft, the size and weight of each piece of cargo are still strictly regulated. The advantage of this type of aircraft is that it does not need to share space with a passenger cabin, maximizing cargo capacity.

   

    

3. Air Cargo Charter: This type of aircraft can carry both cargo and passengers and is rented at the request of the charterer. Depending on the agreement, the aircraft can be used to transport cargo, passengers, or a combination of both.

   Some aircraft providing charter services include:

   • Airbus A321: With a wide fuselage, it can carry 2 - 2.5 tons of cargo, equivalent to a volume of 12 - 15m³.

     

      

   • Airbus A330: Designed with a spacious cargo door, it has a maximum cargo capacity of 15 tons.

     

      

   • Airbus A350: A modern aircraft with a capacity of up to 30 tons, suitable for large and heavy cargo.

     

      

   • Boeing 777: A large twin-engine aircraft with a maximum cargo capacity of 17 tons.

     

      

   • Boeing 787: Also a twin-engine aircraft with a maximum cargo capacity of 32 tons.

     

      

The above outlines the common types of cargo aircraft in air transportation. We hope this article has provided useful information and helped you choose the appropriate transportation method for your needs.