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

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.