Ground Handling Agent

A ground handling agent is a service provider that performs ground handling operations for aircraft while parked at an airport terminal gate. Airlines often subcontract ground handling to airports, handling agents or even to other airlines. Ground handling agents perform cargo acceptance and handling functions, including verifying security clearance, conducting ready-for-carriage checks, and ensuring compliance with shipping requirements. The relationship between airlines and ground handling agents is typically governed by the IATA Standard Ground Handling Agreement (SGHA), which outlines terms and conditions of contracted ground handling services.

A Lufthansa Cargo shipment AWB 020-12345678 arrives at Frankfurt Airport (FRA), where LSG Sky Chefs provides ground handling services including cargo acceptance, security screening, and preparation for the connecting flight to Chicago O'Hare (ORD). At Dubai International Airport (DXB), dnata serves as the ground handling agent for Emirates SkyCargo flight EK 206, performing ramp services, cargo loading operations, and aircraft servicing under an IATA Standard Ground Handling Agreement.

• GHA
• handler
• cargo handler
• ground handler

What is the IATA Standard Ground Handling Agreement (SGHA) that governs ground handling agent contracts?

The IATA Standard Ground Handling Agreement (SGHA) is an agreement between airlines and Ground Service Providers that outlines the terms and conditions of contracted ground handling services, found in Chapter 8 of the Airport Handling Manual (AHM). The current 2023 version of the SGHA is updated every 5 years to align with current laws and regulations.

What specific cargo handling responsibilities must a ground handling agent perform for air cargo shipments?

Ground handling agents must verify shipments are security cleared, perform ready-for-carriage checks, verify all information aligns with the actual shipment, and ensure all embargoes and operational restrictions are applied. They must follow procedures outlined in the IATA Cargo Handling Manual (ICHM), which provides standardized guidelines covering each airline's requirements.