Cargo and baggage compartments

This regulation sets fire safety standards for cargo and baggage compartments in transport category airplanes certificated after January 1, 1958, operated under Part 121.

Large Class C or D compartments (over 200 cubic feet) must have ceiling and sidewall liners made of fire-resistant materials like fiberglass-reinforced resin or materials meeting specific fire test standards. Aluminum liners are acceptable only if approved before March 1989.

Since March 2001, all Class D compartments must meet Class C fire safety standards (with detection and suppression systems) unless operating all-cargo flights, where Class E standards may suffice. This upgrade requirement exists because Class D compartments historically lacked adequate fire protection.

Airlines must report conversion progress to the FAA, identifying which aircraft have upgraded their Class D compartments and which still need work. This ensures systematic improvement of cargo compartment fire safety across the fleet, reducing the risk of uncontrolled cargo fires during flight.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*