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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 2027 edition will take place on 4-6 May in Madrid, Spain.
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 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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Madrid
Madrid, the vibrant heart of Spain, sets the stage for the IATA Ground handling Conference. As one of Europe’s most connected cities, Madrid offers seamless accessibility and state-of-the-art facilities, creating the perfect environment for technical exchange and collaboration among industry leaders.
Beyond the conference halls, Madrid captivates with its unique blend of history and modernity. From iconic landmarks like the Royal Palace to its dynamic business districts, the city reflects a spirit of progress rooted in tradition. Delegates can enjoy world-class cuisine, rich cultural experiences, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes every conversation as memorable as the setting. In Madrid, Ground handling excellence meets European elegance.
Hotel Madrid Mariott Auditorium
The Hotel Madrid Marriott Auditorium is one of Europe’s largest and most prestigious conference hotels, offering the greatest event space in the country. Strategically located between Madrid International Airport and the city center, it is the perfect venue to host any type of event or conference with innovation and style.
Culinary offerings include three dining outlets: Kalma, a contemporary Mediterranean restaurant; the Great Room, ideal for enjoying Spanish tapas in a relaxed setting; and a casual quick-service option for lighter meals. Additionally, the Champions Bar opens in the evenings, serving street food in a vibrant, informal atmosphere. Guests can also enjoy the exclusive Executive Lounge for Marriott Bonvoy members and a fully equipped Fitness Center.
Spacious common areas, bright lobbies, and comfortable lounges are designed to encourage interaction and provide a welcoming environment for all attendees. The hotel also offers a free airport shuttle.
With its prime location, top-tier facilities, and exceptional service, the Hotel Madrid Marriott Auditorium is the ideal venue where organization, comfort, and excellence come together to make every event a memorable success.
Visa Requirements
The IATA TravelCentre provides passport, visa, health advice, and much more. Visit the IATA TravelCentre-Passport, Visa & Health Requirements.
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.
IGHC 2026
The 2026 IGHC saw over 850 delegates come together in Cairo, Egypt at the InterContinental Citystars Cairo by IHG around the theme "People at the Core. AI at the Edge: Adapting Ground Operations in an Era of AI". 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 2026:
IGHC 2025
The 2025 IGHC saw over 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:
IATA IGHC 2025 Highlights
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:
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.