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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
IGHC 2027 Destination
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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 Marriott 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.
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) 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.
Arrival to Madrid
Getting from the airport to the venue
The IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) will be held at Hotel Madrid Marriott Auditorium.
Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD)
- From the Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) to the venue, Hotel Madrid Marriott Auditorium is a 10 -15min car ride.
- The most convenient option is to use the hotel’s free shuttle service from Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) to the Madrid Marriott Auditorium Hotel. You can find information on how to schedule to and from the airport from the Madrid Marriott Auditorium Hotel website which also shows the specific terminals (T1, T2, and T4) they operate from.
- The Airport Website shows the Taxi, which have a flat rate of 33 Euros in this area, stops at the airport or the Ridesharing (Uber/Cabify/Bolt) are also available as alternative options.
- Public transport offers a Metro (Line 8) and Bus (Line 212, Line 200) which connects to Terminals T1, T2, T3 and T4 to the city, getting off at Avenida de Aragón-Almanzora (by bus) stop and Feria de Madrid (by Metro) taking 30-45 minutes.
Getting around the city
- In Madrid you can move around the city with different modes of transportation.
- Public transport in Madrid has a fast and efficient public transport system that includes the metro, buses, and Cercanías trains. The Metro is the quickest option and runs until 1:30 AM, while Buses provide extensive coverage, including airport and night services.
- Public Transport Travel requires a rechargeable Multi Card (Tarjeta Multi) costs €2.50 and 10‑trip ticket (MetroBus) which offers good value and costs approximately €7.30, usable on both metro and EMT buses.
- Madrid City Council makes the official application TXMAD(App Store / Google Play) available to travellers and professionals in the sector to provide information of interest on the Madrid taxi service.
- Ride hailing applications are also available; companies mentioned are Uber, Cabify and Bolt.
While in Madrid
Emergency contacts
- General Emergency: 112
- Medical Emergencies: 061
- National Police (Policía Nacional): 091
- Local Police (Policía Local): 092
- Fire Department (Bomberos): 080 or 085
Currency
- The official currency in Madrid is Euros (€).
- Paying contactless cards or mobile payment is the easiest and most common option; however, it is recommended to carry a small amount of cash (€50–€100) for small purchases, local cafés, tips, or markets where cards may not be accepted.
- Tips are not mandatory but a gesture of appreciation.
Weather
Madrid in May typically sees daytime temperatures around 22–24°C, with cooler evenings dropping to around 10–12°C. Temperatures are generally warm and pleasant, with plenty of sunshine throughout the day and only occasional light rainfall, making it comfortable for outdoor activities.
Power plug
Spain uses power plugs and socket outlets type C and F. They operate on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz frequency.
Useful app
- EMT Madrid and Metro de Madrid can be used for public transportation routes and timings.
- Madrid Travel Guide (Ulmon) for offline maps and city guide with POI (Points of Interest)
Smoking regulations
Smoking and vaping in Madrid are prohibited in all indoor public spaces and in many outdoor areas, including terraces, transport hubs, and locations near schools or hospitals. Violations can result in fines ranging from €30 to €600, depending on the location and severity. More information can be found on the Tobacco/Smoking control by the Ministerio de Sanidad.
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 networking mobile app will be available to all registered delegates 6 weeks before the event.
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Help us spread the word!
Help us spread the word about this critical event. This promotional 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 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:
IATA IGHC 2026 Highlights
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.