Crossdecking

Crossdecking is a term used in various contexts, most notably in aviation and maritime operations, to describe the transfer of personnel or cargo between two vessels or aircraft while they are in motion. In aviation, this typically refers to transferring passengers or crew between two helicopters flying in close proximity, often to rescue someone from a dangerous situation or to perform a specific task. This maneuver is extremely dangerous and requires highly specialized training and equipment.

In the maritime industry, crossdecking refers to the transfer of goods or personnel between two ships. This can be done for various reasons, such as resupplying a vessel at sea, transferring cargo between ships of different sizes, or moving personnel for operational purposes. Similar to aviation, maritime crossdecking is a complex operation that requires careful planning, precise execution, and specialized equipment like cranes or gangways, especially when dealing with rough seas. The goal is to ensure the safety of all involved and the integrity of the cargo during the transfer. The term can also appear in other specialized fields where transfer between moving entities is necessary.