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 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”.

 

 

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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 and Amendments to the 47th edition (2027) of the IATA Airport Handling Manual (AHM) include:

Chapter 1:

  • AHM 123 - New guidance introduced for biometric handling in contactless travel, including touchpoint processes, biometric systems, and privacy and ethical considerations.
  • AHM121 - Revised definition introduced for inadmissible passengers (INAD).

Chapter 3:

  • AHM 370 Interactive Cargo substantially revised to align with the Temperature Control Regulations (TCR) and Perishable Cargo Regulations (PCR).

Chapter 5:

  • AHM 505 -New provisions introduced for aircraft markings identifying ULD positions.
  • AHM 510- New baggage category “Transit Long (BL)” introduced for handling and load information codes.
  • AHM 537- Enhancement for types of ballast used including weight limits, marking material specifications and maintenance recommendations.

Chapter 7:

  • Delay code procedures updated through revisions to the AHM 732 process matrix, with corresponding updates to Aircraft Movement Messages (AHM 780).

Chapter 8:

  • Ground handling agreement provisions updated to clarify services for passengers with disabilities and responsibilities relating to third-party ULD ownership and control.
  • SGHA updates introduced new amendment procedures, force majeure provisions, additional handling services, security requirements, crew services, and ULD management provisions.
  • AHM 812- New template introduced for amendments to Annex B of the SGHA.

Chapter 9:

  • AHM 908 A- Autonomous GSE requirements expanded to include battery lifecycle cost analysis, cybersecurity, fire suppression, owner/user information, and equipment markings.
  • AHM 908B- Addition of specification for geospatial information for autonomous GSE.
  • Requirements updated to clarify compatibility of GSE across aircraft types, including distinctions between active and passive aircraft damage reduction systems and the need for risk assessment prior to GSE cross-utilization.
  • Functional specifications for aircraft nose gear towbar tractors expanded to address the use of tractors with a higher category rating than required for the aircraft being towed.

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.

Chapter 11:

  • AHM 1110 Ground Operations Training Program updated with revised training requirements, job role applicability, training modules, and expanded references to IGOM and AHM content.
  • New training modules introduced for cargo warehouse handling, ULD build-up, freighter aircraft loading supervision, fueling/defueling coordination, potable water services, and lavatory services.