As the commercial aviation industry continues to rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic, ground service providers face a number of ongoing critical challenges. Overcoming these obstacles is crucial to the overall success of the industry.
According to officials with the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the ground handling community can benefit from prioritizing three key areas. These areas include effective recruitment and retention of personnel, implementing global standards consistently and accelerating the digitalization and automation of the industry.
These priorities were highlighted during the 35th IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) in Abu Dhabi in May. Anticipating a busy peak travel season, Monika Mejstrikova, director of ground operations at IATA, encouraged IGHC attendees to act quickly to prepare for increased passenger volumes.
“Short-term we must act fast to prepare for increased traffic. Ensuring efficient onboarding of new employees and working with governments to reduce bottlenecks in security clearances is critical,” Mejstrikova said. “Longer-term, more effective staff recruitment and retention, implementing global standards and accelerating digitalization and automation will be critical to build resilience and ensure sustainability.”
To help mitigate the challenges presented by labor shortages, IATA officials suggested implementing competency-based training that includes online components in order to speed up on the onboarding process.
To further expedite recruitment and enhance employee retainment, IATA recommended utilizing mutual recognition of security training and employee background records; automating processes that reduce physically demanding duties; and promoting career development.
In terms of standardizing the industry, IATA urged stakeholders to further adopt use of the IATA Ground Operations Manual (IGOM) and IATA Safety Audit of Ground Operations (ISAGO).
Technology will also continue to play a key role in the ground handling space, IATA officials noted. Within the realm of digitalization and automation, IATA representatives noted ramp digitalization, load control digitalization and GSE automation as key priorities.
“Ground operations are complex, and delays are the bane of every turnaround coordinator's existence. But with technology and communication advancements, we can avoid delays, make operations safer, more efficient and more environmentally sustainable, while providing a better working experience for staff on the ramp,” said Mejstrikova.
Although exacerbated by the pandemic, many of today’s challenges existed prior to 2020. But efforts continue to be made in order to improve the ground handling industry.
Has your operation found success with onboarding and retaining employees? How has technology made a positive impact on your business? Share your experiences with us at Ground Support Worldwide, so we can work together to continue improving the industry. I welcome and value your feedback on the topic.
