ASM Advances Ground Operations Expertise at IATA’s 38th Global Ground Handling Conference in Cairo

Event context: The 38th IATA Ground Handling Conference took place in Cairo on 19–21 May 2026. IATA highlighted three priorities: applying shared ground-operation standards consistently, modernising ground support equipment (GSE), and improving operational data exchange. This article connects those themes to practical station planning for aircraft operators.

What did IATA identify as the main ground-handling challenges?

In its conference release, IATA pointed to pressure from traffic growth, constrained infrastructure and workforce capacity. Its 2025 ground-handling data recorded more than 29,000 aircraft damage events and nearly 38,000 loading errors worldwide. These are dated industry figures, not results for ASM or a particular airport.

IATA described the Ground Operations Manual (IGOM) and Airport Handling Manual (AHM) as reference points for consistent procedures, with ISAGO audits supporting oversight. The operator and local ground provider still need to agree the applicable procedures, aircraft-specific requirements and responsibilities for each station.

What should an operator confirm with the local handler?

For a proposed flight, confirm the airport and terminal, stand or parking acceptance, aircraft type, arrival and departure times, ground support equipment, passenger and baggage flow, fuel uplift window, crew transport and the local escalation contact. Ask who records service completion and how a delay or equipment change will be communicated. These details are especially useful for a tight turnaround or an unfamiliar airport.

Modern GSE and digital handovers may improve visibility, but equipment availability and system access differ by airport and provider. The operator should verify the actual station capability rather than assume that an industry initiative has already been implemented locally.

How ASM coordinates ground support

ASM can coordinate third-party ground handling as part of an operator’s flight support request. When the rotation depends on an uplift, its aviation fuel supply team can coordinate the quotation and release with the local supplier. See also our aircraft ground-handling checklist for a broader service overview. Local provider acceptance, safety procedures and final flight decisions remain with the responsible parties.

Source: IATA Director Ground Operations speech, 19 May 2026. The figures describe IATA’s reported 2025 data; verify current local arrangements for each movement.