The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has highlighted the serious and costly consequences of ground handling errors, which can lead to injuries
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has stepped up its scrutiny of airport ground handling agencies to prevent incidents and enhance overall aviation safety. The DGCA has issued new rules for ground handlers, aiming to standardisce requirements and increase regulatory oversight.
Ground handling includes various essential functions within the terminal and on the airside, such as passenger check-in, baggage handling, aircraft cabin cleaning, and pushback services. The new rules specify the training and competency requirements for ground personnel, who play a crucial role in safe and efficient ground operations at airports. Ground handling agencies have been given six months to comply with these regulations.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has highlighted the serious and costly consequences of ground handling errors, which can lead to injuries, operational delays, and damage to aircraft and equipment. IATA’s global estimates suggest that the annual cost of ground damage could double to nearly $10 billion by 2035 unless preventive actions are taken.
“The robust safety mechanism to be implemented prospectively by ground handling service providers would help in the prevention and mitigation of ground incidents at the airport, thereby enhancing the quality of services rendered in safety-sensitive functions,” the DGCA stated.
Murali Ramachandran, CEO of Celebi Aviation in India, welcomed the DGCA’s move, noting that standardizing services is a positive step. “The rules require alignment of documentation, operational SOPs, training, equipment, and manpower for safe operations and to reduce incidents. However, the requirements mentioned can be fulfilled by organized ground handlers. The smaller ones may face difficulties in complying with some of the requirements. The timeline for implementation may be increased a bit,” Ramachandran said.
Overall, the DGCA’s new regulations are expected to improve safety and efficiency in ground handling operations, benefiting both passengers and airlines.