Ground handling, also referred to as aircraft ground handling, includes the full range of services performed on the ground to prepare an aircraft for departure and handle it upon arrival. These services support everything from passenger check-in to baggage loading and aircraft servicing. Efficient ground handling ensures safe, smooth, and timely turnarounds—critical for both airlines and travelers.
Ground handling is generally divided into two areas: customer service functions and ramp services.
Customer Service Functions
Customer service functions are a critical part of aircraft ground handling, especially from the passenger’s point of view. These services take place inside the terminal and ensure a smooth journey from check-in to boarding—and often after arrival. While they may not involve ramp operations, they are essential to the full ground handling process provided by airlines or their contracted partners.- Check-In & Ticketing: Passengers check in at staffed counters or self-service kiosks, receive boarding passes, and check their bags.
- Baggage Support: Ground staff assist with oversized luggage, baggage sorting, and support for lost, delayed, or misdirected baggage.
- Lounge Operations: Premium lounges for business and first-class travelers are managed and staffed as part of passenger ground services.
- Gate Services: Staff assign departure gates, make boarding announcements, verify travel documents, and oversee final boarding procedures.
- Special Assistance: Ground personnel handle mobility support, process unaccompanied minors (UMs), and assist with rebooking during delays, cancellations, or missed connections.
Ramp Services
This category involves all ground-side aircraft operations:- Aircraft Parking & Movement: Includes aircraft marshalling, towing, and pushback for departure.
- Baggage & Cargo Handling: Ramp crews load and unload bags, freight, and special cargo using specialized ground handling equipment such as belt loaders, tugs, and container transporters.
- Servicing & Refueling: Teams refill potable water, clean cabins, empty lavatories, and refuel according to flight requirements.
- Catering & Supplies: Catering trolleys, beverages, and cabin comfort items are restocked between flights.
- De-Icing & Inspections: Aircraft may be de-iced or undergo safety checks depending on weather and operational requirements.
Who Provides Ground Handling?
Services may be delivered by the airline’s in-house team, by third-party ground handling companies, or by Fixed Base Operators (FBOs) in the case of private or charter flights. Large carriers often manage these services internally at hub airports, while outsourcing is common at international or regional outstations.Risk & Safety Considerations
Ramp areas are busy, high-risk environments with moving vehicles, loud machinery, and potentially hazardous materials. To ensure safety:- Workers use protective gear and follow strict operational protocols.
- Equipment is positioned with care to avoid damage to the aircraft.
- Specialized training, including safety briefings and ramp resource management, is standard.