Why might air cargo containing perishables require special handling?

Air cargo containing perishables requires special handling primarily to maintain cargo integrity under extreme temperatures. Perishable goods, such as fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and pharmaceuticals, are highly sensitive to temperature fluctuations. If these items are exposed to temperatures outside their required range for prolonged periods, they can spoil, lose quality, or become unsafe for consumption.

Maintaining an appropriate temperature not only preserves the freshness and safety of perishables but also ensures compliance with regulations regarding food safety and the integrity of pharmaceutical products. Special handling often involves refrigerated transport, careful monitoring of temperature throughout the shipping process, and rapid transit to minimize the time perishables spend in any environment that could compromise their quality.

In contrast, adequate packaging, while important, is a broader concept that encompasses more than temperature control. Preventing theft does not directly relate to the special requirements of perishables. Maximizing profit margins is a business consideration that does not address the specific handling needs associated with perishable items. Each of these aspects is relevant to air cargo operations, but the urgency of maintaining specific temperatures is paramount when dealing with perishable goods.