Introduction

Efficient airport operations and seamless ground handling management are the backbone of a thriving aviation industry. In a sector where punctuality, safety, and passenger satisfaction are paramount, the meticulous coordination of activities on the airside and landside is crucial. From managing complex aircraft turnarounds and baggage logistics to ensuring compliance with stringent safety regulations, the responsibilities are vast and interconnected. Any inefficiency or error can lead to costly delays, compromise safety, and significantly impact the passenger experience. Therefore, mastering the intricacies of airport operational flow and ground handling services is essential for aviation professionals aiming to optimize performance and maintain competitive advantage. This essential training course focuses on empowering individuals with the expertise to excel in these critical areas.

This comprehensive training course is meticulously designed to equip airport managers, ground handling supervisors, operations personnel, airline staff, and safety officers with the theoretical understanding and practical tools necessary to oversee and enhance airport operations and ground handling management. Participants will gain a deep understanding of airside and landside operations, learn best practices for efficient aircraft turnaround, and explore strategies for effective resource allocation and emergency response. The course will delve into topics such as ramp safety, baggage handling systems, passenger services, cargo operations, regulatory compliance, and the integration of technology for operational excellence. By mastering the principles and methodologies of Airport Operations and Ground Handling Management, participants will be prepared to streamline processes, mitigate risks, and contribute to a safe, efficient, and passenger-centric airport environment.

Duration: 5 Days

Target Audience

• Airport Operations Managers and Supervisors
• Ground Handling Managers and Supervisors
• Airline Station Managers
• Ramp Operations Personnel
• Passenger Services Managers
• Baggage Handling Supervisors
• Cargo Operations Managers
• Aviation Safety and Security Officers
• Quality Assurance Managers in Ground Handling
• New entrants to airport and ground handling management roles

Course Objectives

• Understand the interplay between airport operations and ground handling for overall efficiency.
• Learn best practices for managing airside operations, including aircraft movement and apron control.
• Acquire knowledge of efficient ground handling services and their impact on turnaround times.
• Comprehend the importance of safety management in all ground operations.
• Explore strategies for optimizing passenger and baggage flow within the airport.
• Understand the role of technology and automation in enhancing operational performance.
• Gain insights into regulatory compliance and international standards for ground handling.
• Develop skills in crisis management and emergency response on the airfield.

Course Content

Module 1: Introduction to Airport Operations

• Overview of airport functions: landside, terminal, and airside operations.
• The airport as an integrated system: stakeholders and their interactions.
• Key performance indicators (KPIs) for airport operational efficiency.
• Introduction to international and national aviation regulations governing airport operations.
• Challenges and future trends in airport management.

Module 2: Airside Operations Management

• Runway, taxiway, and apron management: layouts and markings.
• Aircraft marshalling, towing, and pushback procedures.
• Foreign Object Debris (FOD) prevention and management.
• Wildlife hazard management on the airfield.
• Airside vehicle control and driving regulations.

Module 3: Ground Handling Services Overview

• Definition and scope of ground handling: from aircraft arrival to departure.
• Importance of efficient ground handling for airline punctuality and passenger satisfaction.
• Types of ground handling services: ramp, passenger, cargo, catering, fueling, cleaning.
• The role of Ground Service Providers (GSPs) and airline self-handling.
• Standard Ground Handling Agreement (SGHA) and Service Level Agreements (SLAs).

Module 4: Aircraft Turnaround Management

• Understanding the critical path for aircraft turnaround activities.
• Coordination of various ground handling teams during turnaround.
• Minimizing turnaround time (TOT) without compromising safety.
• Impact of delays and disruptions on turnaround efficiency.
• Utilizing technology for real-time turnaround monitoring.

Module 5: Passenger and Baggage Handling

• Efficient check-in procedures: traditional vs. self-service, biometrics.
• Boarding and deplaning processes for smooth passenger flow.
• Baggage handling systems (BHS): design, operation, and optimization.
• Reducing baggage mishandling and lost luggage rates.
• Special passenger handling (e.g., PRM, unaccompanied minors).

Module 6: Cargo and Mail Handling Operations

• Overview of air cargo operations and logistics.
• Types of cargo: general cargo, special cargo (dangerous goods, perishables).
• Cargo handling procedures: acceptance, build-up, loading, offloading.
• Security screening for cargo and mail.
• Documentation and regulatory compliance for cargo operations.

Module 7: Safety, Security, and Compliance in Ground Operations

• Implementing a robust Safety Management System (SMS) for ground handling.
• Ramp safety programs and incident prevention.
• Aviation security regulations (e.g., screening, access control) on the ground.
• Emergency response procedures for ground incidents and aircraft accidents.
• Compliance with ICAO, IATA, and national aviation authority regulations.

Module 8: Technology, Innovation, and Future Trends

• Automation and robotics in ground handling (e.g., automated baggage sorting, robotic loaders).
• Digitalization of operations: paperless ramp, real-time data sharing.
• Sustainable ground handling: electric Ground Support Equipment (GSE), noise reduction.
• Collaborative Decision Making (CDM) in airport operations.
• Impact of new aircraft types and increased traffic on ground handling strategies.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 7 working days before commencement of the training