What does the term "cargo manifest" refer to?

The term "cargo manifest" specifically refers to a comprehensive list of all cargo on board an aircraft at a given time. This document plays a crucial role in air transportation as it details the types and quantities of cargo, along with pertinent information about the shipment, such as destination and handling instructions. This information is vital for operational efficiency, safety, and regulatory compliance, as it allows relevant parties to know exactly what is being transported and assists in planning for unloading at the destination.

The other options do not accurately capture the definition of a cargo manifest. For instance, a plan for cargo unloading relates more to logistical operations at the destination rather than the documentation of the cargo itself. A document detailing an aircraft's maintenance schedule pertains to safety and aircraft performance rather than cargo details. Lastly, a report of past cargo flights might provide historical data but does not serve the same purpose as a cargo manifest, which focuses on current flights and cargo.