NTSB Issues Recommendation A-15-014 to FAA Regarding Special Cargo Certification

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has issued Recommendation A-15-014, identified by reference number DCA13MA081, addressed directly to the Federal Aviation Administration. This directive calls for the creation of a specialized certification program for personnel who are responsible for the loading, restraint, and documentation of special cargo loads on transport-category airplanes. The NTSB specifies that this new certification framework must include comprehensive procedures, adequate training protocols, and strict duty hour limitations along with rest requirements. These operational standards are intended to be consistent with those applied to other safety-sensitive, certificated positions within the aviation industry. This recommendation aims to enhance safety standards by ensuring that individuals managing critical cargo operations meet rigorous professional criteria comparable to other high-risk roles in air transport.