Sector threats, issues, and hazards

CASA and sector participants joined a sector safety risk profile (SSRP) workshop in May 2025. The group identified the following issues that are inherent risks in the sector. Aircraft Operators/Ground Handling Agencies and Aerodromes should be aware of these risks. If they are relevant to your operation, you should have proper mitigation strategies in place in line with your existing risk management practices. Of note, the main issues facing the sector included:

Key Points of Discussion

1. Ground Service Equipment (GSE) Risks:
   1. Ground crew behaviour
   2. Ageing equipment – Serviceability issues
2. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) Risks:
   1. Ground Handling Agencies servicing multiple operators with different SOP’s creating a risk of ground handlers carrying out a task different to required SOP
   2. SOP Complexity/not fit for local aerodrome
   3. Ongoing non-conformance, for example airside driving or loading procedures
   4. Reduced standards coupled with minimum staff for operations
3. Ground Handling - Behaviours and culture:
   1. Staff behaviours and culture
   2. Retention of Ground Handling Staff - Transient nature of Ground Handlers impacting aviation knowledge/experience
   3. Job security
4. Industry Knowledge and safety sharing
5. Dangerous Goods:
   1. Reliant on customers information and self-declaration to manage DGs
   2. DG events without ARFF support
   3. DG training including new technology risks.