The AHM is a comprehensive guide to standardize ground handling procedures and ensure safe, efficient, and consistent operations across airports worldwide. It provides detailed industry-approved policies and standards for ground handling activities, including passenger services, aircraft loading, load control, and cargo operations. By adhering to the AHM, airlines, ground handlers, and airports can improve operational efficiency, reduce risks, and enhance service quality.

The Airport Handling Manual (AHM) is a complementary manual to the IATA Ground Operations Manual (IGOM). The IGOM is procedure driven, focusing on “how to ​​do”. The AHM is policy driven and focuses on “what to do”.

You can benefit from Volume discounts when purchasing the AHM & IGOM Combos: 10% discount for 5-9 units, 20% for 10-24 units, 30% for 25-99 units and 40% for 100 units or more. Contact our sales team for volume orders.

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What's inside the AHM

  • Chapter 1 – Passenger handling
  • Chapter 2 – Baggage handling (now covered in the Baggage Reference Manual)
  • Chapter 3 – Cargo/mail handling
  • Chapter 4 – Aircraft handling and loading
  • Chapter 5 – Load control
  • Chapter 6 – Management and safety
  • Chapter 7 – Aircraft movement control
  • Chapter 8 – Ground handling agreements
  • Chapter 9 – Airport handling ground support equipment specifications
  • Chapter 10 – Environmental specifications for ground handling operations
  • Chapter 11 – Ground operations training program

 

Still not sure if the AHM is for you? Download the full table of contents with over 15 sample pages.

Stay up-to-date

Significant Changes to the 46th edition (2026) of the IATA Airport Handling Manual (AHM) include:

Cargo and Mail Handling

  • AHM310: Clarified cargo policies with references to relevant IATA cargo standards.
  • AHM320: Added references and clarifications regarding damage reports.
  • AHM333: Aligned policies for handling human remains and urns with the IATA Compassionate Transportation Manual (CTM), including updated packaging, segregation, and storage requirements.
  • AHM345: Revised to include a nickel metal hydrate battery-powered wheelchairs/mobility aids as checked baggage.

Aircraft Handling and Loading

  • AHM422: Removed definitions for clarity and added guidance on ULD management and serviceability responsibilities.
  • AHM440: Fully revised Potable Water Servicing guidance, aligned with WHO, IHR (2005), and industry best practices to ensure comprehensive compliance.
  • AHM454: Updated chock requirements for automobiles and introduced new classifications for hybrid and electric vehicles.

Load Control

  • AHM531: Revised to establish standard passenger and baggage weights.
  • AHM565: Comprehensive update to reflect new technology and messaging, including references to the IATA X565 Editor.
  • AHM581: Updated the ULD/Bulk Load Weight Signals (UWS) message standard.

Management and Safety

  • AHM601: Amended guidance on company operational documentation.
  • AHM610: Clarified safety risk management guidance.
  • AHM621: Clarified interdependencies with AHM601 and AHM615; updated Security Management Systems guidance.

Aircraft Movement Control

  • AHM732: For delay codes Introduced explanatory tables.

Ground Handling Agreements

  • AHM801: Added explanatory text to the IATA Standard Ground Handling Agreement (SGHA).
  • AHM810: Editorial updates to the SGHA.
  • AHM811: Introduced optional text in the yellow pages.
  • AHM820: Aligned the IATA Standard Ground Handling Subcontracting Agreement (SGHSA) with changes in AHM811.

Airport Handling Ground Support Equipment Specifications

  • AHM908: Introduced new categories for equipment with and without human involvement.
  • AHM913: Revised section 6.16 on “precision throttle controls.”
  • AHM920: Added references to AHM904.

Ground Operations Training Program

  • AHM1110: Updated training definitions and expanded guidance on training methods (Theoretical, Practical, On-the-job). Revised qualification criteria for Trainers, On-the-job Trainers, Assessors, and Auditors. Incorporated industry feedback into job role and functional task definitions.
  • AHM1111/AHM1120; Alignment with updated changes in AHM 1110
  • Appendix A - Training definitions extensively revised