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Load shifting is a dangerous phenomenon in water, air, and ground transportation where cargo shifts in a cargo vehicle. This causes the vehicle to tilt, which causes even more movement of the cargo, and further tilting, thereby creating a positive feedback loop. If not corrected, this will lead to severe tipping or even capsizing. Such a dangerous occurrence is prevented by active load management, avoiding high sea conditions for ships, and proper container/bulkhead design.
On a cargo airplane, a professional loadmaster is necessary to prevent the highly-dangerous phenomenon of load shifting. If cargo is not adequately secured, it can move during flight, and move the center of gravity outside of its safe operating limits, which will cause the aircraft to become uncontrollable or stall, and crash.