Load Control
Load Control is a critical part of airport operations that involves carefully planning and managing how weight is distributed in aircraft. This includes coordinating passenger seating, cargo placement, and fuel to ensure the plane is balanced and safe for flight. Think of it like carefully packing a moving truck - everything needs to be in the right place to drive safely. Load Controllers use special computer systems to calculate and verify that the aircraft's weight and balance are within safe limits before each flight. This role is sometimes called Weight and Balance Control or Aircraft Load Planning.
Examples in Resumes
Managed Load Control operations for 50+ daily flights at major international airport
Certified in Load Control and Weight and Balance systems for Boeing and Airbus aircraft
Supervised team of 6 Load Control specialists handling cargo and passenger weight distribution
Typical job title: "Load Controllers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Load Controllers
Professional Associations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a situation where you notice a potential weight distribution issue just before departure?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership in emergency situations, knowledge of safety procedures, and ability to make quick decisions while coordinating with flight crew, ground staff, and other departments.
Q: What experience do you have in training junior load controllers?
Expected Answer: Should show ability to develop training programs, mentor staff, and ensure team compliance with safety regulations and company procedures.
Mid Level Questions
Q: Explain how weather conditions can affect aircraft loading decisions.
Expected Answer: Should understand how factors like ice, snow, or heavy rain impact weight calculations and how to adjust loading plans accordingly.
Q: How do you handle special loading situations like VIP passengers or unusual cargo?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of special handling procedures, ability to coordinate with different departments, and attention to specific requirements.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic elements you check on a load sheet?
Expected Answer: Should know about passenger counts, cargo weight, fuel quantities, and basic balance calculations.
Q: Why is proper weight distribution important in aircraft loading?
Expected Answer: Should understand basic principles of aircraft balance, safety implications, and the importance of accurate calculations.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of load sheets
- Knowledge of weight and balance principles
- Familiarity with loading software
- Understanding of aviation safety basics
Mid (2-5 years)
- Handling multiple aircraft types
- Managing irregular operations
- Coordinating with various departments
- Advanced loading software proficiency
Senior (5+ years)
- Team supervision
- Training and mentoring
- Emergency situation management
- Process improvement implementation
Red Flags to Watch For
- Lack of attention to detail in calculations
- Poor understanding of safety regulations
- Inability to work under time pressure
- Limited knowledge of different aircraft types
- Poor communication skills
Related Terms
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