How do I get to the cargo ramp to jumpseat on a cargo flight?

Thanks

 

Which ramp?

 

Where ever I need to go to get on the flight.

PAX is easy, just go to the gate. Where do I go to j/s cargo?

Thanks again

 

Just drive around the airport until you see the big purple or brown tails.

Seriously, when you book the jumpseat ask for directions.

 

Most FedEx Ramps have a FedEx service center/counter out front. Look on FedEx.com and find the FedEx station at the airport (there are some exceptions at the larger ramps, but they can point you in the right direction!)

 

For UPS, call 1-800-BAT-CREW, and follow the prompts for the jumpseat. When you get a human voice on the line, ask specific questions for the gateway that you want.

When you arrive at the gateway (more than likely via taxi cab), the first thing you will encounter is the rent a cop that will search your bags and body. Ask the guard where flight ops is located, and go there. The folks in flight ops will actually check you in for the flight, give you your paperwork, and possibly introduce you to the crew, if they are around. Our gateways/domiciles range from huge (SDF), to tiny little trailers (MHR/Sacramento) and (SNA/Orange County). Chances are, you will see your pilots at the small places, and never be able to find them at SDF during the sort. In SDF, they have large flat screens on the wall that list the flight#, destination, Capt's name, and most importantly, the ramp#. You'll have to go outside and stand under the sign for the ramp you need. There will probably be a van sitting there to take you to the aircraft. I would be getting on the van no later than 45 min prior to departure time.

When you get to the aircraft, leave your bags at the bottom of the stairs, and go up and introduce yourself to the crew. Ask them where you should put your bags. If you are the only jumpseater on say...a 767, there is plenty of room for your stuff on the flight deck. On a 757, your bags are more than likely going in the belly. At any rate, ask first.

If you made a reservation 24 hrs in advance, and the crew rates a meal....you will have a crew meal on the aircraft also. There are plenty of drinks onboard the aircraft....water, OJ, V8, Cokes, coffee, tea, etc, for your drinking pleasure.

I hope you enjoy your jumpseating experience at Brown!

 

Great summary Archie, nothing to add except don't forget to administer a neck massage to the guy in the right seat please...

 

I have seen airline ops people drive their pilots over to our side of the field before. I guess he could always ask. Time2fly, care to share with us what airport(s) you expect to fly out of?

 

If you are a hot 'chick pilot'. No man hands for me, please!

 

Just follow the guy with the surfboard. The place on the aircraft where he hides it, is the lav.......you may need that later.