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Ground Handling covers the complex series of processes required to separate an aircraft from its load (passengers, baggage, cargo and mail) on arrival and combine it with its load prior to departure.

Who should pay ground handling damages?

• Results of the debate between airlines and ground handlers, Kuala Lumpur, 3 May 2011

Providing expertise and industry advancement

IATA provides a broad array of technical knowledge with 'hands-on' expertise in all areas of ground handling including:

• Consultancy on handling processes and best practice
• Safety and quality auditing services
• Standard ground handling agreement (SGHA) in-house workshops

Bringing together the community: The IATA Ground Handling Council (IGHC)

With over 400 member organizations, IGHC is the major forum of international ground handling executives. IGHC holds an annual meeting providing a unique ground for networking and business opportunities. It also supervises three groups working on topical ground handling issues. More on IGHC and membership.

Setting the Standards: Improving Safety and Efficiency

As an example, two major publications stem from IGHC activities: the IATA Airport Handling Manual, an annual publication containing standards and recommended practices and the IATA Baggage Services Manual, the reference on baggage-related information.