Ground Handling
Ground Handling refers to all the services needed to handle an aircraft while it's at the airport, between flights. This includes everything that happens to prepare a plane for its next flight: from passenger services like check-in and baggage handling, to aircraft services like cleaning, fueling, and cargo loading. Think of it as all the behind-the-scenes work that happens on the ground to keep air travel running smoothly. Companies that do this work are called Ground Handling companies or Ground Service Providers, and they often serve multiple airlines at the same airport.
Examples in Resumes
Supervised a team of 50 staff performing Ground Handling operations for international flights
Improved Ground Handling turnaround times by 20% through process optimization
Managed Ground Services for 3 major airlines at JFK airport
Led Ground Operations team handling 100+ flights daily
Typical job title: "Ground Handling Agents"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Ground Handling Agents
Professional Associations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a situation where multiple aircraft require ground handling services simultaneously with limited staff?
Expected Answer: A senior manager should discuss prioritization strategies, resource allocation, communication with airlines, and contingency planning. They should mention factors like aircraft departure times, service level agreements, and staff capabilities.
Q: What strategies have you implemented to improve ground handling efficiency and reduce turnaround times?
Expected Answer: Should describe experience with process optimization, team coordination, implementing new technologies or procedures, and measuring performance improvements while maintaining safety standards.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you ensure safety compliance in ground handling operations?
Expected Answer: Should discuss daily safety briefings, proper equipment checks, weather considerations, personal protective equipment, and following standard operating procedures.
Q: Describe how you would handle a delayed flight situation affecting ground handling schedules.
Expected Answer: Should explain communication processes with various stakeholders, resource reallocation, and maintaining service quality while handling schedule disruptions.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the main responsibilities in ground handling operations?
Expected Answer: Should be able to list basic services like baggage handling, aircraft marshaling, passenger services, and aircraft cleaning, showing understanding of entry-level duties.
Q: What safety considerations are important when working around aircraft?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic knowledge of safety zones, proper equipment usage, awareness of aircraft engines and moving parts, and following safety protocols.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic ground handling procedures
- Safety awareness and protocols
- Equipment operation basics
- Baggage handling procedures
Mid (2-5 years)
- Team supervision
- Flight scheduling coordination
- Emergency response procedures
- Customer service management
Senior (5+ years)
- Operations management
- Resource planning and allocation
- Contract management with airlines
- Safety program implementation
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic airport safety regulations
- Lack of experience with ground support equipment
- Poor understanding of airline schedules and time management
- No awareness of weather impact on ground operations
