Aircraft Types and Capacities in Air Transport

Air transport is the fastest and most reliable logistics solution for time-sensitive cargo. Two main types of aircraft are used in cargo operations: **Freighters**, which carry only cargo, and **Passenger Aircraft (Belly Cargo)**, which utilize the cargo hold beneath the passenger deck. The right aircraft choice is determined by the size and urgency of your shipment.

The most frequently used cargo aircraft in international transport are the Airbus A330F, Boeing 747F, and Boeing 777F series. For example, a Boeing 747-400F freighter has a load capacity of approximately 110-120 tons, and high-volume pallets can be loaded onto its main deck. In passenger aircraft, capacity is more limited (ranging from 2 to 20 tons), and typically pallets or loose cargo are transported.

In air cargo, loading is generally done using standard aviation containers and pallets called **ULD (Unit Load Device)**. In the tables below, you can find door dimensions, maximum loading capacities, and ULD standards according to aircraft types. As Rumi Logistics, we offer air cargo solutions that will deliver your load to the destination in the fastest way.

Advantages of Air Transport

Air cargo solutions focused on speed, security, and global access

Maximum Speed

Delivery within 24-48 hours even to the farthest points of the world. Unrivaled solution for urgent shipments.

Global Network

Access to all international airports worldwide. Uninterrupted operation with IATA agent network.

High Security

High security standards in airport bonded areas. The transport mode with the lowest risk of damage and loss.

Sensitive Cargo

Special temperature-controlled and secure transport for perishable food, pharmaceuticals, live animals, and valuable items.

Cargo Aircraft Types and Capacities

Wide-body freighter and passenger aircraft for your different cargo needs

Boeing 747-400F / 8F

  • Type: Long-Range Wide-Body Freighter
  • Maximum Load Capacity: ~110,000 - 130,000 kg
  • Volume: ~700 - 850 m³
  • Feature: Nose Load capability
  • Main Deck and Lower Deck loading

Boeing 777F

  • Type: Twin-Engine Long-Range Freighter
  • Maximum Load Capacity: ~100,000 - 105,000 kg
  • Volume: ~650 m³
  • Door Dimensions: Main Deck (3.72m x 3.05m)
  • Capacity of 27 standard pallets (PMC)

Airbus A330-200F

  • Type: Medium/Long-Range Freighter
  • Maximum Load Capacity: ~65,000 - 70,000 kg
  • Volume: ~475 m³
  • Ideal for flexible regional operations
  • Suitable for temperature-controlled cargo transport

Passenger Aircraft (Belly Cargo)

  • Type: Passenger Aircraft (A320, B737, A350, B787)
  • Capacity: Between 2 to 25 tons depending on aircraft type
  • Loading: Lower Deck only
  • Restriction: Maximum height generally 160 cm
  • Advantage: High flight frequency and destination variety
Air Cargo Important Notes
  • **Volume Calculation:** In air cargo, 1 m³ = 167 kg (Chargeable Weight).
  • **Dangerous Goods (DGR):** Requires special packaging and labeling according to IATA regulations.
  • **ULD (Unit Load Device):** Standard pallet and container systems loaded inside the aircraft.
  • **Pivot Weight:** The minimum chargeable weight determined by the airline for each ULD.

Loading Types and Equipment (ULD)

Standard loading units used in air cargo operations

PMC Pallet (P6P)

The most common aircraft pallet. Dimensions: 317 x 244 cm. Suitable for both main deck and lower deck loading.

AKE Container (LD3)

Standard closed container for the lower deck of passenger and cargo aircraft. Volume: ~4.3 m³.

Loose Cargo

Carton-based shipments that do not require ULDs. Generally used in narrow-body passenger aircraft.

Charter / Project

Complete aircraft chartering for out-of-gauge or urgent cargo.

ULD Dimensions (Max)
  • PMC Pallet: 317 x 244 cm
  • PAG Pallet: 317 x 224 cm
  • AKE (LD3): 156 x 153 cm (Base)
  • Max Height: 160cm (Lower) / 300cm (Main)
Weight Limits
  • PMC Max: ~6,800 kg (Main Deck)
  • PMC Max: ~5,000 kg (Lower Deck)
  • AKE Max: ~1,588 kg
  • *Depends on aircraft type
Volume Information
  • B747F Total: ~700-850 m³
  • B777F Total: ~650 m³
  • A330F Total: ~475 m³
  • Volumetric Weight: 1 m³ = 167 kg
150+
Destinations (Countries)
15+
Years of Experience
24/7
Flight Tracking
24-48h
Fast Delivery

Rumi Logistics Air Freight Advantages

Privileges we offer for your time-critical cargo

Maximum Speed

The fastest solution for intercontinental transport. Delivery within 1-2 days for urgent spare parts, samples, and perishable products.

Global Airport Network

Access to all international airports worldwide. Local customs clearance and Door to Door service thanks to our wide agent network.

Express and Charter

In addition to scheduled flights, complete aircraft chartering and "On Board Courier" services for project cargo and urgent situations.

Secure Handling

High security standards in airport bonded areas. Expertise in valuable cargo, dangerous goods (DGR), and cold chain products.

Consolidation Service

Economical solutions for your small volume cargo. We reduce freight costs by combining cargo from different shippers.

Fast Documentation

Fast processing of electronic air waybill (e-AWB) and customs documents. We prevent delays caused by documentation.

Get a Quote for Air Freight Now

Send us the dimensions and weight of your shipment, and let us present the most suitable flight plan and our competitive freight offer within minutes.