Theory test — Cargo class

The Cargo entry test covers IFR freight operations, often at off-peak hours into airports with thinner ATC coverage. Hazmat awareness, weight profiles, fatigue management. 10 questions, 70% to pass.

What it covers

The starter is the B738; freighter variants and the dedicated cargo fleet (767F, 747-8F) come at later tiers. Cargo missions tend to be longer, into smaller cargo hubs, often at night — the test reflects that operational profile.

Topics

• Hazmat basics. Class definitions, segregation requirements, what cannot fly on the same flight.
• Weight and balance for freighters. Different CG envelope; how cargo loading affects it; restraint procedures.
• Night operations. Visual illusions, fatigue, contaminated-runway awareness.
• Reduced ATC operations. Operating in low-coverage airspace; pilot-to-pilot procedures; broadcast vs request.
• Long-range fuel planning. Reserves, alternate selection, the difference between minimum and operational.
• Emergency descent. Pressurization failure procedures; how to handle a freighter that just lost the bulk doors.

Study sources

• FAA Hazmat Safety — basics on classifications and carriage.
• SkyBrary — Dangerous Goods.
• SkyBrary — Fatigue.
• SkyBrary — Rapid Decompression.
• FAA Instrument Procedures Handbook.