Abstract: This lightweight explosion-mitigating assembly includes at least a containment structure and a door. The containment structure and door each include at least one set of engagement flanges. The flanges are movable between an interlocking arrangement and a non-interlocking arrangement. In the non-interlocking arrangement, the flanges are sufficiently relatively operatively free from each other to permit movement of the door relative to the containment structure between open and closed positions. On the other hand, in the interlocking arrangement, the door is in the closed position and the flanges are both mutually engageable and slidable relative to each other into mutual engagement and out of mutual engagement.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for minimizing blast damage caused by an explosive device carried in luggage or other cargo loaded on an aircraft. A first cargo container is provided which includes a non-explosion-resistant panel. A second cargo container, also including a non-explosion-resistant panel is paired with the first container and both containers are loaded in the cargo bay such that the non-explosion-resistant panels face inboard, oppose and align with one another. The method provides a controlled venting feature whereby explosive products are vented into the adjacent container in the cargo bay of an aircraft through non-explosion-resistant panel on the inboard side of the container. The container is constructed of lightweight, high-strength materials and may be joined to a supporting structure with threaded fasteners, allowing for efficient replacement of damaged panels.