Airport terminal grounds are the workplace of the Aviation Ground Services Attendant. The people who service aircraft fill many roles that require specialized training. Many different types of motorized equipment are used to service an aircraft, from pallet loaders, potable water trucks, mobile conveyor belts, tugs for pulling baggage cart trains to high-speed aircraft tow tractors. Ground Services Attendants are the ones who load and unload aircraft materials, and who are responsible for positioning the baggage/cargo correctly to stay within the operating weight and balance limits of the aircraft (an unbalanced aircraft is an unsafe aircraft), while working with stringent time constraints in a high-noise environment with jet blast hazards.
Ground Services Attendants load and unload payloads; operate ground equipment such as belt loaders, push trucks, tractors, ground power units, and air start equipment; load specialized goods and equipment; reposition and move aircraft; and connect and operate passenger loading equipment. They also perform de-icing procedures. The Lead Attendant is responsible for the final pre-flight security inspection and commands the push-back crew.
The ability to operate in all weather conditions and good physical conditioning are assets in this demanding occupation. The Ground Services Attendant occupation is often the point of entry for other positions, especially in large organizations, with the possibility of promotion to Lead or Cargo Loadmaster, for example. Ground Service Attendants can also rise to management positions, overseeing people/teams, terminal control, and gate assignments.
Pathways
- Completion of Secondary School (required)
- In-house training in Aviation General Practices and specialized courses (provided by company)
- Training and experience as a Heavy Equipment Operator (required – may be obtained in-house)
- Safety training (required)
- Firefighting proficiency, airside security (may be obtained in-house)
- CCAA Certification (an asset)
Helpful Tips
- Excellent people skills, ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- Good physical condition
- Environmental awareness, and hazardous materials (HazMat) knowledge
- Valid driver’s licence
Associated Titles
- Airport Ramp Attendant
- Baggage Handler
- Baggage, Cargo, Weight and Balance Controllers
- Cargo Attendant
- Commissary Attendant
- De-Icer
- Lead Station Attendant
- Materials Handler
- Ramp Service Attendant
- Ramp Station Attendant