Ground operations are the tasks (excluding maintenance) that are carried out while an aircraft is on the tarmac before and after a flight.
After an aircraft arrives, it's marshalled to a parking position. It's then either connected to an aerobridge, or stairs are positioned at the doors. Ground operations crew then:
- connect ground power units
- unload baggage and cargo
- replenish potable water
- carry out toilet services
- refuel
- push back and/or tow the aircraft (as required).
What ground operations inspectors do
Our ground operations inspectors make sure the above jobs are performed as per procedure and also oversight:
- operator manuals and procedures and the control of these documents
- training, the facilities used for this purpose, and that training records are maintained
- audit and compliance programs and compliance to the safety management system
- load control communication, the loading system, and the communication of aircraft loading
- GSE operating around aircraft including driver behaviour and adherence to the circle of safety
- check-in and boarding of passengers
- passenger safety while embarking and disembarking the aircraft
- ground service equipment operator training, maintenance oversight and operation
- ensuring the operator manual suite is followed for all ground handling activities, both above and below wing.