An aircraft's cargo door serves as more than just an entry point for goods—it functions as a vital bridge connecting global trade networks. The dimensions of these doors directly determine what types and volumes of cargo can be transported, significantly impacting the efficiency and cost of air freight operations. This analysis examines the cargo door specifications of major passenger and freighter aircraft from Boeing and Airbus, providing essential reference data for aviation logistics professionals.
Narrow-Body Aircraft: Efficient Short-Haul Solutions
For short and medium-haul routes, narrow-body aircraft play a crucial supplementary role in air cargo operations due to their operational flexibility and high frequency. The Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 families represent the industry standards in this category.
Boeing 737 Series (737-800/MAX 8)
- Forward cargo door: 122×132 cm (48×52 in)
- Aft cargo door: 122×132 cm (48×52 in)
- Key features: Side-loading design accommodates standard LD3 containers (153×225×164 cm) or loose cargo. The restricted door size makes these aircraft suitable primarily for small to medium-sized shipments.
Airbus A320 Series (A320neo/ceo)
- Forward cargo door: 124×133 cm (48.8×52.4 in)
- Aft cargo door: 124×133 cm (48.8×52.4 in)
- Key features: Similar dimensions to the 737 series with comparable LD3 container compatibility. As the world's most common narrow-body aircraft, its cargo specifications serve as an industry benchmark.
Wide-Body Aircraft: Long-Haul Cargo Workhorses
Wide-body aircraft offer substantially greater cargo capacity and payload capabilities, serving as the backbone of long-distance air freight operations. Their spacious holds can accommodate large containers, pallets, and heavy cargo, meeting diverse transportation needs.
Boeing 777-300ER
- Lower deck forward/aft doors: 198×183 cm (78×72 in)
- Key features: Large side-loading doors accommodate 96×125 in (244×318 cm) standard air pallets or LD6 containers (223×153×163 cm). The impressive lower deck capacity makes this aircraft ideal for long-haul cargo operations.
Airbus A330-300
- Forward cargo door: 180×193 cm (70.9×76 in)
- Aft cargo door: 180×193 cm (70.9×76 in)
- Key features: Features one of the tallest lower deck doors among wide-body designs at 193 cm height, compatible with LD3/LD6 containers and air pallets.
Boeing 787-9
- Forward cargo door: 173×191 cm (68×75 in)
- Aft cargo door: 173×191 cm (68×75 in)
- Key features: Optimized door design balances passenger and cargo efficiency while accommodating standard air pallets (88×125 in) and containers.
Dedicated Freighters: Engineered for Oversized Cargo
Purpose-built cargo aircraft feature expansive holds and specialized loading systems designed specifically for large shipments and containers, typically equipped with oversized doors for efficient loading.
Boeing 747-400F
- Nose door: 340×280 cm (133.9×110.2 in) with unique upward-hinged design for outsized cargo
- Side door: 259×305 cm (102×120 in) for standard containers and pallets
- Key features: Main deck capacity for 30 standard air pallets (96×125 in). The distinctive nose-loading capability enables transportation of exceptionally large items unavailable to other aircraft.
Airbus A330-200F
- Main deck door: 340×224 cm (133.9×88.2 in)
- Lower deck door: 180×193 cm (70.9×76 in)
- Key features: Accommodates 23 standard pallets, offering efficient mid-size freighter operations with flexibility for various cargo types.
Practical Considerations: Beyond Door Dimensions
While cargo door measurements provide essential baseline information, operational planning must also account for internal hold dimensions (length, width, height) and packaging requirements. Door size determines whether cargo can enter, while internal space dictates proper stowage.
Variations may exist between different sub-models of the same aircraft family. For precise operational planning, consult official Boeing or Airbus technical documentation or coordinate with airline cargo departments.
Unit conversion: 1 inch = 2.54 cm
Strategic Implications for Air Cargo Operations
The significant variation in cargo door dimensions across aircraft types directly influences air freight capabilities and operational efficiency. Narrow-body aircraft serve short-haul routes with smaller shipments, wide-body aircraft dominate long-distance transport, while dedicated freighters specialize in oversized cargo. Selecting the appropriate aircraft requires careful evaluation of door specifications, internal capacity, and shipment characteristics to ensure safe and efficient delivery.