I noticed some LD3 ULDs (Unit load device, container type LD3) - like AKE (LD3 without forklift holes/half ALF) - mention DO NOT USE A380. What is the difference between normal LD3 and A380 LD3?
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$\begingroup$ AKE seems to be compatible with A380, according to this. $\endgroup$– minsDec 23, 2016 at 18:10
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$\begingroup$ Where are you seeing DO NOT USE WITH A380? Do you see it painted on the containers? Everywhere I look shows them being compatible $\endgroup$– TomMcWDec 23, 2016 at 23:05
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$\begingroup$ I have seen emirates containers. $\endgroup$– PRAKASH SUBBURAMDec 24, 2016 at 14:37
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$\begingroup$ DO NOT USE ON A380. This comment is mentioned on LD3 AKE. $\endgroup$– PRAKASH SUBBURAMDec 29, 2016 at 11:45
1 Answer
Emirates uses multiple kinds of ULDs.
The AKE with "DO NOT USE WITH A380" are made out of aluminum metal. The tare weight is 80 kg. Contrasted with the AKE (light weight) 66 kg tare weight and the AKL (ultra light weight) 56 kg tare weight, the difference may seem small, but multiplied over the large number of AKEs can reduce the payload and therefore fuel burn considerably.