What function do ULD latches/locks serve in cargo transport?

ULD latches and locks are crucial components in cargo transport as they serve to secure the cargo and prevent movement during different phases of flight. This stabilization is essential for safety and maintaining the aircraft's balance. Specifically, these latches ensure that cargo remains in its designated position, minimizing the risk of shifting that could disrupt the aircraft's center of gravity and leading to potential handling issues.

By keeping cargo securely in place along specific axes, ULD latches protect against the adverse effects of turbulence, changing flight conditions, and acceleration forces. This effective management of cargo positioning is vital for operational safety and contributes to the overall efficiency of the flight.

While options related to aesthetics, quick unloading, or weight reduction hold relevance in different contexts, they do not address the primary safety and stability functions that ULD latches and locks provide in cargo transport. Thus, the focus on securing cargo from movement distinguishes the correct choice in this scenario.