GroundHandling

Ground handling refers to the range of services required to move an aircraft between the gate and the stand, and to support the aircraft while on the ground. It includes planning, provisioning, and execution by airlines, airports, and third-party ground service providers. The aim is to ensure safe, efficient, and timely aircraft turnaround.

Core services include passenger handling (check-in, boarding assistance, boarding bridge management), baggage and cargo handling (loading, unloading, sorting, transfer), aircraft servicing (catering, lavatory and water services, cleaning), and ramp operations (marshalling, ground power supply, air conditioning units, towing, pushback, and aircraft start procedures). Fueling is often provided by dedicated fuel suppliers but may be part of ground handling arrangements.

Equipment and personnel: Ground handling uses equipment such as baggage trolleys, conveyors, GPUs, air conditioning units, tow tractors, belt loaders, and charted safety equipment. Personnel include ramp agents, baggage handlers, cabin service staff, and coordinators. Turnaround time is a key performance indicator and is carefully planned with airline operations.

Safety and regulation: Ground handling is governed by aviation safety regulations and airport rules. Workers must follow procedures to mitigate jet blast hazards, vehicle collisions, and equipment accidents. Training, licensing, and ongoing competency assessments are common, and service quality is typically regulated via service level agreements and audits, with standards from industry bodies such as IATA and national authorities.

Trends and market: The sector has moved toward outsourcing and integrated service provision, digital platforms for scheduling and tracking, and the deployment of electric ground support equipment to reduce emissions. Efficiency gains, reliability, and safety remain central, while resilience to disruptions remains a priority for airports and airlines.