Abstract: A release/restraint mechanism for air-dropped cargo interposed between fixed aircraft structure and the restraining webbing. A fixed arm is oriented opposite a pivoted arm which is fixed in one position and free to rotate in the release position. A restraint arm is pivoted at one end of the fixed arm and engages a cam on the pivoted arm. The pivoted arm is angled about the pivot point so as to provide a side load on the end pivoted arm so as to open the restraint arm when in the release position, freeing the cargo for a gravity air drop.

Abstract: A structural system for capturing, supporting, and releasably securing a tail ramp toe of an aircraft, while the aircraft is either on the ground or in flight. The preferred embodiment of the ramp toe stowage system is adapted for use with a cargo aircraft having: a downwardly and outwardly opening tail ramp, with at least one ramp toe removably attached to it; and, an upwardly and inwardly opening tail door that is complementary to, and aft of, the tail ramp, with the tail door having an internal surface. The stowage system is located over, and is attached to, the internal surface of the tail door, and includes two horizontally positioned tracks that accept complementary guide rollers which are on the side edges of the ramp toe, near the known center of gravity of the toe. Unlike the prior art, the system requires only one man to stow the ramp toe, or to release it from stowage, even while the aircraft is in flight.