What is the UH-60A Cargo Hook Rating?

• A. 6,000 lbs
• B. 12,000 lbs
• C. 8,000 lbs
• D. 15,000 lbs

Answer: (C)

The main idea is understanding cargo hook rating: it’s the maximum weight the helicopter’s external load system is certified to lift safely. For the UH-60A Black Hawk, the center cargo hook is rated at 8,000 pounds. This value comes from the aircraft’s external-load data and flight manual, reflecting the structural and dynamic limits during sling operations. Keeping loads at or below this rating ensures the airframe, rotor system, and hook hardware aren’t overstressed in flight, takeoff, or landing. Heavier payloads, like 12,000 or 15,000 pounds, exceed what this helicopter is certified to carry on the center hook, while 6,000 pounds is below the maximum rating but not the official limit. So, eight thousand pounds is the correct cargo hook rating.