A cargo bay or cargo hold is a general purpose storage facility aboard shuttles, starships and starbases. Cargo bays are often equipped with large transporters to assist in the moving of cargo containers.

Cargo bays have been used in a variety of ways other than typical storage, including triage centers, brigs, and stasis unit facilities.

Akira Class cargo bays have variable environmental controls and are designed for oraganic storage. In certain situations, they can be converted to a hydroponics bay in order to allow for the growth of foods for consumption.

Some cargo bays aboard the Akira Class are located close to the outside of the ship and can be decompressed easily by blowing the cargo bay hatch.