Ground handling contributes to the success of 37 million flights every year. IATA aims to accelerate the introduction of enhanced ground support equipment (GSE) technologies into daily operations with a new programme in order to prevent expensive potential damage to aircraft on the ramp.
-Abigail Mathias
Presented at IATA’s Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) in May this year, the IATA
Enhanced GSE Recognition Programme recognises Ground Handling Service Providers (GHSPs) that are modernising their vehicle fleets. The programme encourages the installation of anti-collision systems on new and existing ground support equipment (GSE) to prevent expensive potential damage to aircraft on the ramp.
The first ground handlers to obtain this recognition at various stations are Hactl and Menzies Aviation. GHSPs participating in the programme will have the opportunity for their fleets to be assessed. Those achieving a ratio of enhanced GSE to non-enhanced GSE that exceeds a predetermined threshold will receive a recognition stamp valid for two years.
Participation in the programme will be voluntary, as part of IATA’s commitment to achieving industry-wide safety improvements without imposing financial burdens on GHSPs. IATA estimates the annual cost of ground damage to aircraft could reach US$10 billion by 2035 unless preventive action is taken.
However, transitioning 75 per cent of the global fleet of belt-loaders, cargo loaders, passenger stairs and passenger boarding bridges to Enhanced GSE would reduce the current expected ground damage cost per turn rate by 42 per cent.
The IATA Airport Handling Manual advises on the design and use of Enhanced GSE as a best practice. The programme will serve as an add-on to the IATA Safety Audit for Ground Operations, which will include the integration of Enhanced GSE into operations as of 2025.
The programme will be deployed in several phases, initially focusing on assessing the three types of GSE most associated with ground damage incidents—belt loaders, ULD loaders, and passenger stairs. Over time, it will expand to include lifting and elevating GSE that docks at aircraft doors and GSE that couples to aircraft.
The programme is the latest action to facilitate the transition to Enhanced GSE. It follows the publication in late 2022 of the IATA Ground Damage Report: The Case for Enhanced Ground Support Equipment, which identified safety and sustainability benefits that could be gained from this transition. Enhanced GSE uses anti-collision and inching technology, which improves vehicle control, and increases docking accuracy. Most Enhanced GSE is electrically powered, thereby delivering sustainability gains over most non-Enhanced GSE.
“The Enhanced GSE Recognition Programme is another pillar of IATA’s efforts to reduce ground damage by transitioning to Enhanced GSE fleets. The transition has been slow, despite-documented gains in safety, cost-reduction, and sustainability. By recognising those companies leading the evolution, we have an objective to accelerate this critical industry transition,” said Monika Mejstrikova, Director, Ground Operations, IATA. Professionals share their thoughts on the latest developments, opportunities, and challenges within the ground handling sector.
Optimise air routes, improve cargo loading to improve efficiency, cut costs
Thomas Schürmann, Head, Cargo Operations & Delivery, Etihad Cargo
Ground handling has seen many developments in the Middle East, reflecting a faster growth trajectory. Many stations across the region have operated under monopolistic conditions with only a single provider available for handling services. Recent trends indicate a shift towards greater market openness, with new competitors entering the scene.
The region is characterised by a disparity in airport infra ranging from ultra-modern hubs, such as Zayed International Airport, to facilities with dated infrastructure that have lagged in receiving investment. There is an effort to improve less developed stations, aimed to standardise efficiency and safety in ground operations across all airports. The challenges of ground handling mirror those found globally, although certain issues are more pronounced.
One difference is the manpower challenge is less of an issue in the region. The operators can play a significant role in promoting handling companies by fostering ties and ensuring service across nternational locations.”
We invest in electrifying handling fleet to deliver worldclass services
Guillaume Crozier, Senior Vice President, UAE Cargo & Global Cargo Strategy, dnata
Over the past few years, we have invested in advanced infrastructure and technologies to consistently deliver world-class services at Dubai’s airports. Our most recent milestones include the successful launch of One Cargo, our cutting-edge cargo management system, which automates key business and operational functions with an integrated, cloud-based platform. Besides innovation, sustainability has also been a top priority. We continue to invest in the electrification of our ground handling fleet and take initiatives in order to reduce waste and recycle materials across our air cargo operations.
Practical training centres in the Middle East are need of the hour
Shankar Subramoniam, CEO, Salt Tech International
The UAE has developed over the decades into an international powerhouse for air connectivity with plans for sustainable and technology-driven future growth. Ground handling services play an important role in supporting this growth by helping meet the demand for aircraft maintenance, facilitating memorable and ensuring efficient operations for airlines and airports.
Automation is likely to play a significant role in enhancing efficiency and reducing costs. The rapid evolution of Artificial Intelligence-powered systems could enable predictive maintenance. The future of ground handling services is looking bright, and we would say this future will look brighter by the day. In the same breath, the Middle East region is short of skilled manpower. In order to keep up with the growing demand, there is a need for additional pilots, crew, technical, mechanical, and operational manpower. More academic and practical training centres and flight simulators are the need of the hour.
Despite technology, industry dependent on skilled workforce
Glyn Hughes, Director General, TIACA
Ground handling industry has embraced technology and innovation during post COVID as volumes of time and temperature sensitive cargo have increased. We are focusing on system automation with enhanced integration to support more efficient exchanges with airlines and freight forwarders to smoothen out the process of cargo drop off, collection and processing, among others.
Even with advancements in technology, the ground handling industry is still dependent on a skilled and motivated workforce. This is a challenge throughout the international network of global air cargo sector. The ground handler is the last line of safety and security defence and the first line of customer interaction. Success is going forward, which will require attracting and retaining employees at all levels from warehouse activity through to technology and automation design and project implementation. At the same time, this will also require new approaches for staff recruitment.
With collaborations, operators must ensure efficiency & cargo safety
Hakim Ramadan, Partner and Director, Miebach Consulting, Dubai
Middle East is witnessing development in air cargo. This is due to its geographic advantage and network expansion by the carriers. The growth has been more than 15 per cent. There are infrastructure investments to support future growth. Technological advancements offer efficient and sustainable solutions with high precision.
Ground handlers navigate a complex web of operational needs. They must find a way to be sustainable without impacting efficiency. The operators play a crucial role in promoting ground handling firms. They can do so by collaborating with stakeholders, addressing talent shortages, and prioritising safety, among others. With collaborations, the aviation industry can ensure safe and efficient ground handling operations.
Green initiatives, smart technology implemented to solidify position
Antony Marke, Chief Operating Officer, Dulsco People
The UAE leads the way in ground handling innovation at its airports. Automated systems for baggage handling and check-in and as smart technologies such as radio frequency identification and biometric identification have improved efficiency and security. Advanced equipment and green initiatives are being implemented, while collaborations with airlines and industry stakeholders are solidifying the UAE’s position as a top aviation hub.
Ground handling can face challenges related to capacity constraints, weather conditions, regulatory compliance, labour issues, infrastructure limitations, and cost pressures. These challenges can lead to delays, safety risks, inefficiencies, and high costs. Collaboration among airport operators, airlines, ground handling service providers, and authorities is necessary to develop innovative solutions and best practices to enhance efficiency in handling operations.
Handling faces challenges for proactive risk management
Atilla Korkmazoğlu, HEAD, Ground Handling and Cargo, Çelebi Aviation Holding
Following COVID, the aviation industry is experiencing a turnaround, leading to new initiatives that could be gamechangers. Projects such as new airports in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and UAE, with a focus on the cargo segment, are underway. Stakeholders are adapting to meet changing needsؙ—utilising technology for efficiency, and prioritising sustainability. Çelebi Aviation leads with innovations such as predictive maintenance algorithms and digital cargo handling.
Handling faces challenges such as regulations, fluctuating cargo volumes, rising costs, labour shortages, and sustainability concerns. Despite this, Çelebi Aviation remains committed and has the necessary capability to overcome the challenges to excellent service through investments in infrastructure, employee development, and proactive risk management.
Imbibing logistics technology to enhance efficiency in transportation
Shinod Jabbar, Warehouse Operations Manager, QNLC
The Middle East’s logistics industry is dynamic and experiencing expansion and progress. With its geographical position, increasing trade activities, and investments in infrastructure, this region is undergoing substantial development. The logistics sector is embracing modern technologies and innovations to enhance efficiency in transportation, supply chain management, and overall logistics operations.
Providers can operate at multiple stations so that carriers can rely on uniform standard of service regardless of location. This footprint grants these providers exposure in the market, as reaching pacts with well-known carriers showcases their capability and expands their visibility. By selecting handling firms that demonstrate excellence on a global scale, airlines promote these firms ensure superior service quality.
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