Method and apparatus for securing payloads to the exterior of an aircraft

A method and apparatus for providing heavy structural attachment points outside the pressure vessel of an aircraft is described which requires no special modification to the aircraft itself, while at the same time, maintains aircraft pressurization. The method comprises the installation of the apparatus which comprises a removable pressure plug, and a load-bearing structural support. The pressure plug is adapted to replace an existing plug in the fuselage of the aircraft and provides for penetration of the support as well as a seal for pressurization loads. The support attaches to suitable structural attachment points within the fuselage and the external, functional payload attaches to the support.