Need Help?
The IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) 2026 continues as planned in Cairo. We’re very much looking forward to welcoming the global ground handling community in Egypt from 19th to 21st May 2026.
Cairo continues to operate normally and all local partners are fully prepared to host the event. Planning is progressing smoothly, and we remain committed to delivering a safe, productive, and engaging conference.
If you have any questions or need support, our team is here to help at ighc-events@iata.org. We look forward to welcoming you in Cairo!
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
Message from the CEO of EGYPTAIR
Help us spread the word!
Help us spread the word about this critical event. This Social Media Kit (ppt) can be tailored to your needs!
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)
Get the latest IATA Ground Handling Conference news straight in your inbox!
Program
View the official IGHC 2026 Program (pdf).
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 |
Prices are excluding VAT.
*The GHP Membership includes 2 complimentary passes to the IGHC. This reduced fee is applicable to obtain additional GHP passes.
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
For full details on preferential rates, booking deadlines, check in/check out times, payment and cancellation policies, as well as hotel services and benefits available to IGHC 2026 delegates, please consult the following document: IGHC 2026 - Hotel Info Delegate (pdf)
Visa Requirements
The IATA TravelCentre provides passport, visa, health advice, and much more. Visit the IATA TravelCentre-Passport, Visa & Health Requirements.
Flight Discounts for IGHC 2026 Delegates
EgyptAir is kindly offering special flight discounts to IGHC 2026 delegates.
Preferential fares are available on EgyptAir operated flights.
Full details, including eligibility and booking instructions, are provided below.
Please follow the below steps:
- First contact us to get your unique Username and Password credentials.
- Open EGYPTAIR website, and make sure to select Worldwide (USD) from the country menu.
- Then click here.
- Enter the username and password to benefit from the discount.
Please note the following:
- Sales are open until 15th May 2026.
- Roundtrip must be completed from 15th May to 31st May 2026.
- Discounts applied to IGHC delegates: 10% on Business class, 15% on Economy class.
- Discounts are applied on all Egyptair Worldwide destinations.
Must see spots – Cairo
- Pyramids of Giza & the Sphinx: The iconic symbols of ancient Egypt and one of the world’s greatest archaeological sites.
- Grand Egyptian Museum: A state of the art museum showcasing exceptional ancient artifacts, including Tutankhamun’s treasures.
- Khan El Khalili Bazaar: A historic market filled with spices, crafts, jewelry, and local souvenirs.
- Islamic Cairo & the Citadel: Stunning mosques, medieval architecture, and panoramic city views.
- Coptic Cairo: A historic district home to some of the oldest Christian churches in Egypt.
- Nile River Cruise: A relaxing way to experience Cairo, by day or night, on the legendary river.
- Zamalek: A stylish island district with cafés, galleries, and restaurants.
Pre/Post IGHC Tours
Click here for Cairo Alexandria Tours
Above you will find a selection of pre and post event tours available for the IGHC participants.
- These tours are entirely organized and managed by an independent third party provider.
- Please note that IATA is not involved in the organization, operation, or management of these tours.
- IATA assumes no legal, contractual, or financial responsibility for any aspect of these activities.
- Participants wishing to join any of these tours must book directly with the tour operator and will be subject to the operator’s own terms and conditions.
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
Book Now
BOOKING IS OPEN UNTIL 8th MAY
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
Book Now
BOOKING IS OPEN UNTIL 8th MAY
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
Book Now
BOOKING IS OPEN UNTIL 8th MAY
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.
Before your travel
IATA is providing a visa invitation letter but cannot guarantee your visa issuance. In case you need it, answer “Yes" to the visa letter question during your registration: you will have to enter all the requested details for the letter to be generated. Note that it is mandatory to be fully registered to the IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) 2026 to get it. Please ensure you check your visa requirements as soon as possible to prevent any delay in your visa application.
For guidance on visa requirements and further information, you should consult the IATA Travel Centre.
Registration is mandatory for everyone wishing to attend the IGHC. No exceptions will be made.
To register for the IGHC 2026, please use the registration link, complete all the requested fields, and proceed with payment for your registration to be valid.
While at the event
- Dress code: The dress code for the event is business casual.
- Wi-Fi: There is Wi-Fi available in the venue.
- Event app: The IGHC Event App is now available, it includes additional information such as the program, delegates messaging tool, speakers details, sponsors list, exhibition and venue floorplans, and many other logistics details.
To access the Event App:- Scan the QR code provided.
- When prompted, enter the access code that you have received.
- Then log in using the same email address you used for your event registration.
App Store
Google Play
Like, share, interact
Spread the excitement about the event by using the official hashtags #IGHC.
Don't forget to like, share, and interact with our posts. Let's connect and make the event experience memorable together!
X | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Flickr | YouTube
Help us spread the word!
Help us spread the word about this critical event. This Social Media Kit (ppt) can be tailored to your needs!
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 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
Platinum Sponsor
Gold Sponsor
Silver Sponsors
Bronze Sponsors
Exhibitors
Hospitality Suites
Gold Media Partners
Silver Media Partners
Media Partner
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.