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The IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) is the premier annual ground handling conference in the world. It brings together industry leaders from airlines, airports, ground service providers, and manufacturers, to discuss and implement industry standards, policies, and procedures.
The IGHC 2026 edition will take place on 19-21 May in Cairo, Egypt.
IATA IGHC 2025 Highlights
Why you should attend
- Unique business, networking, and branding opportunities.
- Expected attendance of over 800 delegates, including key airline decision-makers.
- Exclusive access to industry intelligence and the latest industry developments.
- One-to-one meetings in the BizZone.
Who you will meet
- 30% airlines, 60% ground service providers and airports, 10% manufacturers and solution providers
- 50% top management, 50% middle management
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Testimonials
"Attending the IATA IGHC Conference was an incredibly valuable experience. The sessions provided deep insights into the latest trends and best practices in ground handling, while the networking opportunities allowed me to connect with industry leaders from around the world. It was a great platform to exchange ideas, learn from real-world case studies, and stay updated on global standards. Highly recommended for anyone in the aviation ground handling sector.“
Shahid Nadeem, General Manager, Shaheen Airport Services
“I recently had the privilege to attend the IGHC Conference in Kenya, and I must say, it was an absolutely outstanding experience. From the moment we arrived, the hospitality and organization were impeccable. The conference brought together industry leaders, innovators, and experts from around the globe, creating an unparalleled atmosphere of collaboration and learning. The keynote speakers were phenomenal, delivering insightful and forward-thinking presentations that challenged us to think critically about the future of ground handling. The breakout sessions were equally impressive, offering a diverse range of topics that catered to various interests and professional needs. It was evident that a great deal of thought and effort had gone into curating content that was not only relevant but also highly impactful.”
Dr. Adewale Sanni, LHG Station Manager NBO, Kenya, AOC Kenya
“Attending the IATA Ground Handling Conference 2024 was an incredibly enriching experience. The event brought together industry leaders, experts, and professionals from around the globe, creating an unparalleled platform for networking and knowledge exchange. Additionally, the conference facilitated several fruitful meetings with potential partners and suppliers, opening doors for new collaborations and strengthening existing relationships.”
Mohammad Al Osta, Regional Director Europe & CIS, HADID International Services
“The event was very insightful, fantastic networking opportunities, knowledgeable speakers, great participants, and some very interesting exhibitions. Undoubtedly, one of the most important industry congregations, it was worth it.”
Michael Adjinbaruk, Consumer Protection Officer, Ghana Civil Aviation Authority
“IGHC is one of the most important meeting places for us as Ground Handler. It gives us the opportunity to meet with colleagues, partners, and customers and at the same time attend interesting sessions.”
Kjell Ivar Maudal, Chief Commercial Officer, Widerøe Ground Handling AS
“The IGHC is not just another conference. It’s a place where all the expertise and knowledge is shared with only one purpose: to enhance the aviation industry to an extreme level of proficiency and consistency.”
Roberto Gomes, Excellence and Operational Security, beAQC (Aviation Quality Council)
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Program
IGHC 2026 Program will soon be available
Trainings
International Negotiations Skills Course
Benefit from 15% discount on the rates shown on the course webpage.
Further details can be found here: International Negotiations Skills Course
Training will take place on the 21 May 14:00-17:00, 22 & 23 May 09:00-17:00
Confirm your interest through the IGHC registration website, a member of the training team will then contact you.
SGHA & SLA Course
Benefit from 15% discount on the rates shown on the course webpage.
Further details can be found here: SGHA & SLA Course
21 May 14:00-17:00, 22 & 23 May 09:00-17:00
Confirm your interest through the IGHC registration website, a member of the training team will then contact you.
| REGISTRATION TYPE | 2026 REGULAR RATE IN USD |
|---|---|
|
$760.00 |
|
|
$1,945.00 |
|
|
GHP Member** |
$1,945.00 |
|
General Public |
$2,247.00 |
|
Airport |
$1,735.00 |
|
Government/Regulator/Institution |
$1,735.00 |
**The GHP Membership includes 2 complimentary passes to the IGHC. This reduced fee is applicable to obtain additional GHP passes.
Showcase your products and services to industry leaders, governments, international organizations, and subject matter experts. Contact us to learn more about our Sponsorship & Exhibition opportunities, and secure your place at the IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) in 2026! We are open to customizing an offer based on your business needs.
Cairo
Located in the northeastern part of Egypt on the banks of the Nile River, Cairo has been the capital of Egypt since X century, a country that stands as a great crossroads, connecting Africa, the Middle East, and Europe through its strategic geographic position. This city is one of the world's largest megacities, as well as a major cultural, economic and political hub for Africa and the Middle East. Cairo has the perfect combination of ancient landmarks such as Al-Ghouri Complex or the Magra El-Oyoun Aqueduct and modern landmarks for instance the Cairo International Airport, Cairo Opera House or the Qasr El-Nil Bridge. In addition, not far from Cairo it is Memphis and its Necropolis - the Pyramid Fields from Giza to Dahshur that are part of the UNESCO's World Heritage List since 1979 and one of the most easily recognizable landscapes from Egypt.
> Learn more about Cairo
> Weather in Cairo
InterContinental Citystars Cairo by IHG 
The InterContinental Citystars Cairo by IHG boasts exceptional event facilities, including one of the largest ballrooms in the city. Guests can enjoy both indoor and outdoor heated pools, a fully equipped fitness center, and a relaxing spa. The hotel also provides in-room dining and a diverse culinary experience across nine on-site restaurants and bars, featuring Egyptian, Lebanese, Japanese, and international cuisines. Located in Heliopolis, this hotel is directly connected to Cairo’s Citystars retail and leisure complex, offering a prime location for sightseeing and immersing yourself in the vibrant street life of Cairo. Within less than an hour’s drive, guests can visit iconic landmarks such as the Great Pyramid and Sphinx of Giza, the Grand Egyptian Museum, and Old Cairo. Committed to sustainable hospitality, the InterContinental Citystars Cairo proudly holds the prestigious Green Key certification, awarded following rigorous environmental audits
Visa Requirements
The IATA TravelCentre provides passport, visa, health advice, and much more. Visit the IATA Travel Centre-Passport, Visa & Health Requirements.
Official Hotels
We are delighted to present the official hotels for the IATA Ground Handling Conference 2026, taking place from 19 to 21 May at the InterContinental Citystars Cairo by IHG.
We have carefully selected exceptional hotels, all perfectly situated within walking distance of the event venue. With a range of options to suit different preferences, we encourage you to make your reservation as soon as possible to benefit from preferential rates and secure your accommodation for this event.
InterContinental Citystars Cairo by IHG (5*)
15 min by car to the Cairo International Airport
Enjoy a stay in a 5-star hotel in Cairo and take advantage of our preferential rates, including a daily buffet breakfast starting from:
- 258 USD for a Classic Room.
Discover Cairo’s heritage in the luxury of the 5-star InterContinental Citystars Cairo Hotel in Heliopolis, near the Stars Centre Mall. Relax in elegant rooms with stunning views, and enjoy our 9 bars and restaurants.
Check-in time: 15:00
Check-out time: 12:00
Nights available with the discount
16 – 22 May 2026
For any inquiries please contact: groups.citystars@ihg.com
Benefits & Privileges for all guests
Payment & cancellation policy:
Reservation must be secured with a credit card, which can be entered via the reservation link. If the guest cancels or postpones this booking at any time during the relevant period, then the guest shall pay as per the below:
- 7 days before the arrival date, 50% of the agreed room rate.
- 3 days before the arrival date one night will be charged.
Holiday Inn Cairo - Citystars by IHG (5*)
15 min by car to the Cairo International Airport
Enjoy a stay in a 5-star hotel in Cairo and take advantage of our preferential rates, including a daily buffet breakfast starting from:
- 155 USD per night for a Standard room
Located in the heart of the bustling Citystars complex, Holiday Inn® Cairo Citystars is just a 10- minute walk to the InterContinental CityStars Cairo. With direct access to the Stars Centre Mall, the hotel's location offers endless entertainment.
Check-in time: 15:00
Check-out time: 12:00
Nights available with the discount
16 – 22 May 2026
For any inquiries please contact: groups.citystars@ihg.com
Benefits & Privileges for all guests
✓ Fitness center
✓ Wi-Fi
✓ Concierge services
✓ 24-hour security
Payment & cancellation policy:
Reservation must be secured with a credit card, which can be entered via the reservation link. If the guest cancels or postpones this booking at any time during the relevant period, then the guest shall pay as per the below:
- 7 days before the arrival date, 50% of the agreed room rate.
- 3 days before the arrival date one night will be charged.
Staybridge Suites Cairo - Citystars by IHG (4*)
15 min by car to the Cairo International Airport
Experience the comfort and convenience of Staybridge Suites® Cairo Citystars and take advantage of our preferential rates, including a daily buffet breakfast starting from:
- 219 USD per night.
With direct access to the Stars Centre Mall, just a 5- minute walk to InterContinental CityStars Cairo, the hotel provides an ideal base for business travelers.
Check-in time: 15:00
Check-out time: 12:00
Nights available with the discount
16 – 22 May 2026
For any inquiries please contact: groups.citystars@ihg.com
Benefits & Privileges for all guests
Payment & cancellation policy:
Reservation must be secured with a credit card, which can be entered via the reservation link. If the guest cancels or postpones this booking at any time during the relevant period, then the guest shall pay as per the below:
- 7 days before the arrival date, 50% of the agreed room rate.
- 3 days before the arrival date one night will be charged.
IGHC 2025
The 2025 IGHC saw over to 800 delegates come together in Nairobi, Kenya at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre around the theme "Elevate". The conference hosted plenary sessions and workshops on a variety of topics such as ground handling, baggage practices, innovation and automation.
Check out what happened at the IGHC 2025:
IGHC 2024
The 2024 IGHC saw close to 700 delegates come together in Reykjavík, Iceland at the Harpa Reykjavík Conference Centre around the theme "Partnering for a better planet". The conference hosted plenary sessions and workshops on a variety of topics such as Innovation on the Ramp,Exploring Sustainable Solutions for GSE Fuel and Beyond, Regulating for Safety and The Role of Training in Ground Operations Sustainability.
Check out what happened at the IGHC 2024:
IGHC 2024 Highlights
IGHC 2023
The 2023 IGHC saw over 800 attendees come together in Abu Dhabi, UAE at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center around the theme "Embracing technology. The time is now." The conference hosted plenary sessions and workshops on a variety of topics such as automation, digital cargo, innovations in de-icing operations, ground operations data analytics, and recalibrating strategies and behaviors of people.
Check out what happened at the IGHC 2023:
IGHC 2022
The 2022 IGHC edition was focused on improving implementation procedures and operations, forging sustainable new agreements and leveraging and empowering the workforce to deliver sustainable sound solutions.
Over 650 delegates gathered in Paris, France at the Palais Brongniart, to discuss technology and efficiency (initiatives and the implementation of case studies), people in ground operations, and new agreements (contracts and data).
Check out what happened at the IGHC 2022:
Host Airline
Exhibitor
Our Diversity & Inclusion Pledge
IATA believes that diversity of culture, gender, age, orientation and experience boosts the success of the aviation industry. We actively encourage aviation professionals with diverse profiles to contribute to our events as speakers, panelists, facilitators, or in any other way.