Aircraft ground handling covers the services required while an aircraft is on the ground, from arrival and parking through servicing, passenger or cargo handling and departure. ASM coordinates local handlers and supervises requirements within the wider flight-support plan, helping operators align the turnaround with fuel, permits, slots and schedule changes.
What is included in aircraft ground handling?
The scope varies by aircraft, airport and flight type. It may include marshalling, parking, passenger steps, baggage, ground power, cabin servicing, water and lavatory service, pushback, towing, de-icing, passenger or crew assistance and coordination with fuel, catering and CIQ providers.
| Turnaround stage | Typical confirmations |
|---|---|
| Before arrival | Handler acceptance, parking, slot/PPR, equipment and CIQ |
| On blocks | Marshalling, chocks, steps, baggage and passenger movement |
| Servicing | Fuel, catering, cleaning, water, lavatory and ground power |
| Before departure | Load status, documents, pushback or start approval and slot readiness |
How is ground handling different from flight support?
Ground handling is focused on the aircraft’s activity at an airport. Flight support has a wider scope and may coordinate the route, permits, flight plan, fuel, handling, crew logistics and disruptions across several stations.
What should operators confirm before arrival?
- Handler acceptance and 24/7 contact details
- Parking, slot and PPR status
- Aircraft dimensions and required GSE
- Passenger, crew, baggage or cargo requirements
- Customs, immigration and quarantine arrangements
- Fuel grade, quantity and release
- Catering, transport, HOTAC or special assistance
- Departure sequence and any curfew or operating-hour limits
Why does handler choice matter?
A handler must be able to support the aircraft type and complete scope at the required time. The lowest quoted price may exclude essential equipment, overtime, airport fees or third-party services. Operators should compare scope, exclusions, response time and local operating capability.
How are turnaround changes managed?
Changes should be sent to the handler and the wider support team as one operational update. A delay may alter parking, fuel delivery, CIQ availability, crew duty or the departure slot. Confirm the revised service sequence rather than changing only one booking.
How ASM coordinates ground handling
ASM appoints and coordinates approved local handlers according to the airport, aircraft and mission requirement. Its 24/7 desk aligns handling with permits, flight planning, aviation fuel, HOTAC and diversion support. ASM carries USD 2 million in supervisory ground-handling liability insurance.
Ground handling FAQs
Is an FBO the same as a ground handler?
Not always. An FBO may provide a passenger facility and some handling services, while a ground handler may focus on ramp and aircraft support. The local structure varies.
Does handler confirmation include parking?
Not automatically. Parking, slots and PPR should be confirmed separately where required.
Can one handler support every aircraft type?
No. Equipment, approvals and capability vary by station and aircraft.
Can ASM coordinate handling during a diversion?
Yes, subject to the alternate airport’s acceptance and local availability.
Reviewed September 2026. Airport services and restrictions must be reconfirmed for every movement.
Request ground handling: visit Ground Handling or email sales@asm.aero.
Keep Your Flight Operations Moving Worldwide
From flight planning and permits to ground handling, aviation fuel, diversion support and crew logistics, ASM coordinates the operational requirements surrounding every sector through 24/7 global support.