Cargo operations, often termed the backbone of global commerce, hold an indispensable position in the vast world of aviation. These operations, while silently powering economies, connecting businesses, and bridging vast geographical divides, have been the silent workhorses of our skies. Yet, it's startling how their monumental contribution often slips under the radar of the general populace.

The Untold Stories of Cargo Operations

One might ask, why does such a pivotal sector of our industry remain veiled in obscurity? A deeper dive into the statistics provides an alarming revelation: cargo operations were responsible for a significant 22 percent of Part 135 crashes in the lower 48 states from January 2013 to December 2022. This data nudges us to peel back the layers, delve into the tales behind these numbers, and truly comprehend the intricacies of this underestimated aviation segment.

Mainstream media tends to gravitate towards the more sensational stories of commercial plane crashes, sidelining the extensive realm of commercial aviation. But could this be attributed to public disinterest, or is there a deeper narrative?

Understanding the Commercial Aviation Landscape

For many, the term "commercial" evokes images of mammoth passenger and cargo airlines operating under Part 121. This perspective, regrettably, neglects a vast segment of commercial aviation, notably the over 2,000 commercial Part 135 operators, especially those dedicated to cargo.

The distinction between Part 121 and Part 135 operations is not just semantic—it's rooted in the very essence and magnitude of their operations. While Part 121 operators are the celebrated airlines frequently gracing our headlines, Part 135 operators often operate behind the scenes, delivering specialized services on a more intimate scale. Comprehending this difference is pivotal, as it not only illuminates the unique challenges each sector confronts but also influences their safety records and public image.

Part 135 Cargo Operations: A Nocturnal Affair

The importance of the Part 135 cargo industry is undeniable, but for many, it remains a mystery. The predominant reason? Most of these operations occur at night, with single-engine aircraft weaving between smaller airports. The question then arises, why the nocturnal inclination?

It's primarily the modern-day supply chain, and consumer demands driving this trend. The e-commerce boom has conditioned consumers to anticipate rapid deliveries. To cater to this, cargo operations have adapted to work efficiently overnight, ensuring the seamless movement of goods. The quieter skies at night also offer logistical advantages, streamlining processes.

Dissecting the Data: Understanding the Trends

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Aviation Accident Database offers a treasure trove of insights. A closer analysis reveals that out of the 439 total Part 135 accidents during the specified period, a significant portion occurred in Alaska. The unique geographical challenges Alaska presents, coupled with its reliance on small commuters and air taxis, provide a partial explanation.

However, when we exclude Alaska from the equation, we're left with 278 accidents. A detailed assessment indicates that many were cargo operators, with Texas emerging as a hotspot. But what attributes to this?

Aircraft Involvement and Pilot Operations

Interestingly, aircraft like the Cessna Caravan, Beech 99s, and Fairchild Metroliners were frequently involved in these accidents. Moreover, most of these operations were helmed by a single pilot, hinting at potential vulnerabilities in the system.

A recurring theme in these accidents was pilot error. This revelation prompts us to question the adequacy of training, scheduling, and maintenance within the industry. Are there systemic inefficiencies that need rectification?

Incident Spotlights

January 2013: A heart-wrenching incident involving a Cessna Caravan pilot with Martinaire. Despite his extensive experience, a tragic crash after takeoff claimed his life, pointing to the unpredictable challenges even seasoned pilots can face.
October 2015: A Cessna 210 ran out of fuel, nearing its destination. Amid the pilot's high workload, an oversight in fuel management occurred, emphasizing the need for thorough training and support mechanisms.
June 2020: An accident involving a Mitsubishi MU-2 pilot on duty for nearly 19 hours raises concerns about regulations governing pilot working hours.

Looking Ahead

These incidents underscore the need for a comprehensive review of the industry's operational protocols and safety measures. Furthermore, understanding the partnerships between aircraft operators and freight companies is crucial. How can the sector ensure transparency and accountability in these collaborations?

In conclusion, cargo operations, while essential, often remain in the shadows. It's high time we shine a light on this sector, understanding its challenges, celebrating its successes, and continually striving for excellence and safety.

Contact CraftoftheAir, your trusted partner in ensuring flight safety and operational excellence, for personalized guidance and expert consultation on your aviation maintenance needs. Visit our consulting page at Consulting by COTA to learn more.

The Unseen Workhorses of the Skies: Part 135 ops