IATA is reporting progress in its enhanced ground support equipment (GSE) recognition programme, as it works to increase the adoption of the technology within the sector.
“The more we use enhanced GSE, the fewer the incidents of ground damage to aircraft. It’s that simple, and it’s a cornerstone of the IATA Ground Damage Reduction Strategy,” said IATA’s Director Ground Operations, Monika Mejstrikova.
To that end, the association’s Enhanced GSE Recognition Program incentivises the adoption of Enhanced GSE.
“Since May 2024, we’ve received 98 fleet declarations, with 28 stations already recognised for maintaining high ratios of enhanced GSE. Operators like Menzies, Celebi, Goldair, Swissport, Qatar Aviation Services and HACTL are leading the way,” Mejstrikova said.
Since April GSE fleet declarations are mandatory at all ISAGO (IATA Safety Audit for Ground Operations) stations, and IATA plans to broaden the scope of the programme.
“This year, we’ll expand the programme from current focus areas such as passenger stairs and belt loaders to include elevating equipment for persons with reduced mobility [PRM],” she said. “And we’ll introduce additional recognition measures for handlers making real strides in reducing ground damage.”
Mejstrikova also pointed to the use of data in supporting the push for improved safety in ground handling.
“In 2024, for the first time, ground-related fatalities involving aircraft were included in our global safety taxonomy. This gives a much clearer and more comprehensive picture of safety risks in ground operations,” she said.
For example, analysis of the use of IATA’s Accident Data Exchange (ADX) has led to updates to IATA’s Ground Operations Manual, including clearer ‘no-touch’ zones, mandatory brake checks and use of guide personnel, safer pushing and towing procedures, and new protocols for aircraft with inoperative APUs or hot brakes.
