（Question on loading Class 8 substances.）
Q.
We had a shipment of Electric Wires as general cargo, and much to our surprise, a dangerous goods shipment (Class 8 UN3265 Corrosive liquid, acidic, organic, n.o.s.) loaded on top of our Electric Wires had leaked en route. This Corrosive liquid shipment was loaded atop the Electric Wires on a pallet. When the ULD was broken down at destination, the Electric Wires were found wet and damaged. Corrosive liquid and Copper Wires do not go along together. Is it customary that airlines build up their pallets without considering segregation between dangerous goods and general cargo? We are not exposed to handling and segregation, and wish to be guided. (31 Oct 18)
A.
It is unfortunate that the leakage happened. Airlines strictly observe the segregation requirements between dangerous goods whether on ground or on the aircraft. As for segregation between non-dangerous cargo, airlines will observe segregation requirement such as between live animals and dry ice however for other non-dangerous cargo, i.e., Copper Wires, unless the airline is alerted at time of reservations and by a remark entered on the AWB (such as “Segregation required between Corrosive liquid”) no consideration will be made.
As for liability compensation for this damage, please file a cargo claim with the airline. The airline has the legal responsibility. You need not file a claim with the shipper of the corrosive liquid. You will need only to negotiate with the airline. As a step, the airline will file a claim with the Corrosive shipper for overall damages to the aircraft and all cargoes affected.
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