Cargo crew at Edinburgh Airport experienced a concerning incident during the descent of a Boeing 737-400 freighter loaded with cargo from Stansted Airport. The crew heard a double bang as a 695kg container shifted and struck the bulkhead wall. Initially, they thought there was an issue with the right-hand engine, but all engine indications were normal except for a momentary vibration on the right engine.
The crew suspected a cargo shift on the main deck but decided to continue their descent to Edinburgh, where they landed safely. The investigation revealed that the unit load device (ULD) loaded in Bay B had shifted forwards and hit the bulkhead wall during descent. The ULD was found in Bay A upon arrival, indicating that the locks on the ULD in Bay B were likely not secured properly, allowing it to move during the flight.
The crew was only informed of the cargo movement after it had been unloaded, making it difficult to determine whether the locks were not engaged or had malfunctioned. The operator took several safety measures to address the risks of unsecured cargo shifting during flight, including keeping Bay B void rather than Bay A.
This incident raises concerns about the importance of properly securing cargo during flights to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of both the crew and the aircraft. It also highlights the need for thorough checks and procedures to be followed before and during flights to avoid potential hazards.
Proper training and adherence to safety protocols are crucial in the aviation industry to prevent incidents like this from occurring in the future. It is essential for all personnel involved in loading and securing cargo to be vigilant and meticulous in their duties to maintain the highest standards of safety and operational excellence.