How can extreme temperatures affect cargo in air transportation?

Extreme temperatures can significantly impact the integrity of cargo during air transportation, making special handling essential. Certain types of cargo, such as perishables (like food or pharmaceuticals), are particularly sensitive to temperature fluctuations. If they are exposed to extreme heat or cold, their quality, safety, and efficacy can be compromised. For instance, perishable items may spoil, and temperature-sensitive medications can lose their effectiveness, which can have serious consequences for consumers.

In addition, specific cargo may require temperature-controlled environments, such as refrigeration or heating, during transit to maintain their integrity. This need for specific conditions often dictates special handling procedures, including the use of insulated packaging, temperature monitoring, or using specialized transport containers. Thus, maintaining appropriate temperature conditions through careful planning and management directly correlates with the preservation of cargo integrity and overall safety in air transportation.