Overview
EN ISO 2873:2002 (identical to ISO 2873:2000) defines a standardized low pressure test method for complete, filled transport packages and unit loads exposed to the reduced-air-pressure conditions encountered during air transport. The procedure is intended for packages destined for pressurized aircraft (any altitude) and for unpressurized aircraft operating at altitudes up to 3 500 m. The standard helps verify package integrity, closure performance and load stability under aircraft-like pressure changes.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope and applicability: Applies to complete, filled transport packages and unit loads intended for air carriage (pressurized aircraft any altitude; unpressurized ≤ 3 500 m).
- Test principle: Place the filled test item in a pressure chamber and reduce chamber pressure to the equivalent of 3 500 m altitude (approx. 650 mbar ±5 %). Maintain the pressure for a predetermined period, then restore ambient pressure.
- Pressure change rates: Pressure must be reduced and restored at rates not exceeding 150 mbar/min.
- Temperature consideration: If temperature effects are to be studied, the chamber atmosphere can be maintained at −8 ±1 °C during the hold period. Annex A gives representative external atmosphere temperatures at various altitudes for reference.
- Apparatus: A pressure vessel (chamber) large enough for the test item with controlled pressure and temperature capabilities.
- Conditioning and identification: Test items must be conditioned per ISO 2233 and oriented/identified per ISO 2206.
- Test report requirements: The report must reference the standard and include lab/customer details, test dates, unique ID, number of replicates, full description of the package (dimensions, materials, closures, cushioning), masses, conditioning/environmental data, pressure/temperature profiles and any deviations or observations.
Practical applications and users
- Packaging designers and manufacturers - to validate designs for air transport and ensure closure integrity and cushioning performance under low-pressure conditions.
- Test laboratories and QA teams - to perform reproducible certification tests for airworthiness of packages and unit loads.
- Shippers and logistics providers - to confirm that shipped goods (especially sensitive equipment, consumer electronics, medical devices) will tolerate pressure changes during flight.
- Airlines and regulators - to assess cargo safety and compliance with accepted test methods for transported goods.
Related standards and SEO keywords
- Related: ISO 2233 (conditioning for testing), ISO 2206 (identification of parts when testing).
- Useful search terms: EN ISO 2873:2002, ISO 2873:2000, low pressure test, packaging for air transport, complete filled transport packages, unit loads, pressure chamber test, aircraft cargo testing.
This standard provides a clear, repeatable method to simulate aircraft cabin/hold pressure effects on packaged goods - essential for safe, compliant air cargo operations.
