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Ground handling errors could cost airlines $10 billion annually by 2035

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Ground handling errors could cost airlines $10 billion annually by 2035
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Ground incidents on airport aprons can lead to significant damage, with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) warning of potential costs reaching $10 billion annually by 2035. The Montreal-based organization highlights that these incidents are often due to ground handling errors, which can result in injuries, operational delays, and costly repairs.

The IATA report underscores that most ground damage is caused by human error. This includes inadequate attention from ground handlers and insufficient training. The dynamic environment of airport ramps and aprons adds to the challenge, with factors such as staffing levels, experience, equipment operation skills, ramp design, traffic congestion, and weather playing a role.

Motorized Ground Service Equipment (GSE) is a notable contributor to aircraft damage. Such incidents disrupt airline operations and strain budgets. "Aircraft ground damage poses a critical challenge," states the report.

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Movable stair trucks are another source of damage when misjudged distances lead to collisions with parked aircraft. Similarly, baggage loading trucks can cause harm due to mechanical failures or loss of concentration. A case in point was at Darwin Airport when a loader crashed into a Boeing 737.

Fuel trucks also pose risks at airports without underground fuel lines. In 2019, a fuel truck collision at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport involved two American Airlines regional jets operated by Mesa Airlines.

Passenger airbridges can inflict fuselage or door damage if not properly adjusted during boarding or disembarking processes. Lastly, towing operations carry risks; an incident at Dublin Airport in 2017 saw an Airbus A320's engine damaged due to tug control loss.

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