The captain is ultimately responsible for the safe operation of the aircraft. However, even pilots can’t be experts at everything and do ten things simultaneously. That is why we always have a specially loadmaster at every airport that checks if the cargo palettes have been built correctly and who comes up with a loading plan that tells were each palette has to go. They also make sure that the loading is done correctly and that all the cargo is secured and fastened so that it will not move.
Training for loadmasters usually takes place near Frankfurt and is organised by Lufthansa Cargo. It lasts several weeks with some more time thereafter for hands-on practice.
Posted in: Flying/MD-11/Lufthansa
