It was a pleasure connecting with so many members of the industry this spring at the GHI Americas Conference in Toronto. Taking part in engaging, face-to-face conversations with the thought leaders propelling our industry forward is my favorite part of this role and is always enlightening.
As panel speakers discussed current trends, gave presentations and offered their outlook on the future of our industry, three major topics continued to surface – the importance of safety, the opportunities available to the cargo segment and the benefits of embracing and utilizing new technologies.
The necessity of safety in ground operations isn’t a new concept, but it was emphasized throughout the conference. The ground handling industry relies on its people to keep day-to-day operations running smoothly. While building a safety culture can come with unique challenges, it is imperative that safety policies are implemented and followed.
With an increased demand in e-commerce and the special care required to transport perishable goods, including pharmaceuticals, people are relying on air cargo more and more every day.
Of course, this is a terrific opportunity for cargo carriers, but it requires precision and timely work from cargo handlers as well as reliable ground support equipment. The good news is our industry is up for the task, as demonstrated during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Panel speakers and exhibitors at GHI Americas made it very clear that our industry has joined the 21st century. Adopting new technology is no longer a luxury, but a requirement.
Meeting environmental goals, optimizing ground operations and making intelligent data-driven decisions is crucial for ground handlers to compete in today’s market. GSE companies are providing technological solutions to achieve these objectives, and the airlines and ground handling companies utilizing them are becoming more efficient and realizing enormous benefits.
With safety, cargo and technology top of mind, I’m certain we will see additional innovations in these areas at the upcoming GSE Expo Europe in Lisbon, Portugal. The Ground Support Worldwide team is looking forward to connecting with industry at the event, so be sure to visit us at Booth B65.
We also encourage you to stay up-to-date on the latest happenings leading up to, during and following the GSE Expo Europe by regularly exploring our Industry Event eGuide at AviationPros.com/magazine/76260.
