In recent weeks, the shape of cargo flights has taken a turn. Many empty commercial aircraft are now being used to ship personal protection equipment (PPE) and medical supplies throughout the world. Perhaps the last thing you think a cargo-only flight would need is a flight attendant but airlines are still employing their services on these flights. Here's why...747 cargo loading

Flight attendants make an appearance on cargo flights

It's not all that common for cargo planes to employ flight attendants to manage goods. Normally, as you would assume, cabin crew would not be needed. However, a rise in DIY cargo shipments using empty passenger aircraft has meant that these common conceptions have changed.

Cabin crew mask
Airlines have mandated that all passengers and crew wear face masks. Photo: Getty Images

Air carriers like Hi Fly have been using commercial aircraft to bring aid from China to Portugal. Other airlines, like Lufthansa and SpiceJet, are doing the same in their respective countries. Some of these airlines are keeping their cabin crews in employment by offering them shifts on cargo planes. Of course, this is not simply a gesture of goodwill on the airline's behalf. However, it does help. 

 

The reason that flight attendants need to be employed on some cargo planes is the same reason that they are employed on passenger services. They are needed to ensure safety. However, this time it's not about keeping passengers in check but instead mitigating fire risks. Flight attendants are now donning fire extinguishers in lieu of the drinks' trolley.

What's the risk?

The main issue with converting commercial aircraft to carry cargo is that these aircraft are not structurally the same as cargo planes. According to Boeing:

"Cargo compartments on Boeing passenger and freighter airplanes incorporate comprehensive fire protection that includes fire detection and suppression systems."

However, not all commercial aircraft have these systems. And if they do, they are not as robust as the normal fire suppression systems in purpose-built freighters. For this reason, extra measures are needed to mollify potential fire hazards.

cargo passenger plane interior
PIT has developed one of the most efficient and affordable cargo centers in North America. Photo: Getty Images

There are some techniques in place which do not require the presence of a cabin crew member. These include restrictions on what cargo goes in the cabin. Commercial aircraft carrying cargo should not carry alcohol-based hand-sanitizers and mercury thermometers. Other items on that list might include those prohibited in cabin baggage. Anything that represents a significant risk of fire should be avoided.

However, not all circumstances can be covered and flight attendants are now used to stand in when things go wrong.

How many flight attendants does it take to fly a cargo plane?

Despite the significant risk, the ratio of flight attendants to cargo appears to be relatively low. Boeing and Airbus both recommend that just one cabin crew member be present during a cabin cargo flight. This person has the sole responsibility of overseeing cargo with a view to managing fire outbreaks.

With these ratios, it is apparent that the risk of fire is minimal. However, you can never be too careful. So far this strategy, coupled with the careful management of goods, has not caused any in-flight fires. Flight attendants will likely continue their presence on commercial cargo flights to come.

Do you think flight attendants should be present on commercial cargo flights? Have your say in the comments.Â