What is a key difference in response to a fire involving cargo aircraft?

The key difference in response to a fire involving cargo aircraft lies in the potential presence of hazardous cargo, which may necessitate special protocols. Cargo aircraft often transport a variety of goods, some of which can be hazardous materials that have specific handling and containment requirements during a fire. This includes chemicals or flammable materials that could present additional risks to both responders and the surrounding area.

Special protocols are essential in such situations to ensure the safety of the firefighting personnel, as these protocols guide responders on how to deal with the specific types of hazardous materials. For example, certain chemicals may not react well with water or could create toxic fumes when burned, requiring alternative suppression methods or protective equipment.

The other options do not adequately account for the unique challenges posed by hazardous cargo. Prioritizing speed of response is important in all firefighting incidents, not just for cargo aircraft. The exclusive use of water-based extinguishers is not suitable for all types of fires, especially those involving hazardous materials, which may require specific types of extinguishing agents based on the nature of the cargo. Similarly, unloading all cargo before firefighting efforts is not always feasible or safe given the urgency of the situation and the potential for spread of the fire or further risk if hazardous materials are involved.