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Smarter Training, Safer Operations

  • Ari Ketola
  • Aug 14
  • 2 min read

Ground handling lies at the heart of airport operations. Passenger services, ramp operations and air cargo handling all aim to keep flights on schedule and ensure the safety of passengers and employees. However, if hidden dangers are not addressed, they can lead to costly delays, equipment damage, or even serious injury.

  

Foreign Object Debris (FOD): Small Things Can Cause Big Problems

Even a small item, such as a loose bolt, a discarded coffee cup or a piece of plastic, can cause significant damage if ingested by an aircraft engine or caught in moving equipment. FOD poses a constant threat in busy ramp areas, and its potential impact is sometimes underestimated.


How training helps:

  • Educates staff to identify and remove FOD as part of their standard workflow.

  • Reinforces apron inspection routines and proper disposal practices.

  • Promotes a safety-first mindset, encouraging everyone to take responsibility for maintaining a clean operational area.


Ramp operations

Break the Language Barriers with Multilingual eLearning

Airports are some of the most diverse workplaces in the world. While diversity is a strength, it can also create communication gaps when employees are trained or instructed in a language with which they are not fully comfortable. Misunderstood procedures can lead to misloads, incorrect use of equipment, or safety oversights.


How training helps:

  • Offers content in multiple languages while maintaining consistent quality and compliance standards.

  • Uses visual aids, and interactive scenarios to reinforce understanding beyond text.

  • Builds confidence and inclusion in diverse teams, improving morale and retention.


Fatigue - The Silent Safety Hazard

Shift work, irregular hours, and physically demanding tasks mean that fatigue is a real concern in ground operations. Tired staff are more likely to make mistakes, overlook hazards, or react slowly in emergencies.


How training helps:

  • Raises awareness of the warning signs of fatigue and its impact on safety.

  • Provides practical tools for managing rest, hydration and workload.

  • Encourages a workplace culture where staff feel supported in reporting fatigue concerns without fear of stigma.


Turning Awareness Into Action

Identifying these risks is only the first step. Real change happens when organisations incorporate safety awareness into every aspect of their training, from onboarding to annual refresher courses.


At Airport College International, our eLearning courses related to ground handling are designed to help teams recognise hazards early, take preventive action, and contribute to a stronger safety culture.


We Are the Global Leader in Ground Handling eLearning

Our online training programmes are used by leading aviation companies in over 140 countries worldwide. We are proud to offer courses in several languages, helping organisations to overcome training challenges within diverse teams and locations.

Ready to Learn More?

Would you like to take your ground handling training to the next level?


We are happy to discuss how our tailored solutions could meet your organisation’s training needs.


Best regards,


Pertti

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