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IATA Calls For Safer And More Efficient Ground Handling Operations

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

May 21, 2026

Rising Complexities And Operational Challenges

Speaking at the 38th IATA Ground Handling Conference in Cairo, Monika Mejstrikova, Director of Ground Operations at International Air Transport Association, outlined the growing operational pressures facing the aviation ground handling sector.

Mejstrikova described ground handling as a critical component of aviation safety and efficiency, warning that rising passenger demand, ageing infrastructure, workforce shortages and geopolitical disruptions are increasing pressure on airport operations worldwide. “No aircraft moves safely without ground handling getting it right,” she said.

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According to IATA, the industry handled nearly 40 million flights globally in 2025 without any fatal incidents and recorded only one serious injury. At the same time, the sector reported more than 29,000 aircraft damage incidents and nearly 38,000 loading errors, highlighting ongoing operational risks.

Global Standards And Collaborative Initiatives

Mejstrikova stressed the importance of applying international operational standards, including the IATA Ground Operations Manual and the Airport Handling Manual. The standards are developed collaboratively with airlines and ground handling companies to improve consistency across airport operations.

IATA said more than 1,000 organisations currently use its Operational Portal, including around 280 airlines and over 700 ground handling partners. Regulators, including the European Union Aviation Safety Agency, are also examining the standards within upcoming ground handling regulatory frameworks.

Modernizing Equipment And Embracing Sustainability

Modernisation of ground support equipment remains another major focus for the sector. Mejstrikova said aircraft ground damage continues to generate significant repair costs for airlines and operators, particularly as global flight activity increases. Programmes such as IATA’s Enhanced GSE Recognition Programme, launched in 2024, are encouraging investment in anti-collision systems and positioning technologies designed to reduce operational risks.

The transition toward electric ground support equipment is also accelerating as airports and operators seek to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. According to IATA, electric systems can lower emissions by as much as 52% compared with conventional equipment.

Digital Transformation For Operational Excellence

Digitalisation is also becoming increasingly important across airport operations and passenger services. IATA said 81% of passengers want improved baggage tracking capabilities, while 88% expect real-time travel updates. The organisation’s 10-year Global Baggage Roadmap and adoption of the X565 aircraft loading data standard are intended to improve operational coordination while reducing handling errors and delays.

Conclusion: A Unified Path To Safer Operations

Mejstrikova said the future of ground handling will depend on stronger integration between international standards, modern equipment and digital technologies. According to IATA, improving operational resilience and safety will require continued collaboration between airlines, airports, regulators and ground handling providers as global aviation demand continues to expand.

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Keve Welcomes New Cyprus Business Development Organisation

The Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Keve) has welcomed Parliament’s unanimous approval of legislation establishing the Cyprus Business Development Organisation, describing it as a major step toward improving access to finance for small and medium-sized enterprises, startups and self-employed professionals.

Expanding Access To Finance

The legislation creates a new public body aimed at addressing financing gaps by supporting businesses that struggle to secure funding through traditional channels.

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According to Keve, the initiative could strengthen entrepreneurship, boost competitiveness and support Cyprus’ green and digital transition. The chamber has long argued that SMEs rely too heavily on bank financing, limiting investment, expansion and innovation.

Keve Calls For Swift Implementation

Keve said it helped shape the legislation through the consultation process and called for the organisation to become operational as quickly as possible. It also pledged to continue working with the Finance Ministry and the organisation’s management to support implementation.

How The Organisation Will Operate

Approved by Parliament on Tuesday, the legislation establishes Cyprus’ national business development body under the supervision of the Finance Minister, while the Central Bank of Cyprus will oversee anti-money laundering compliance.

The organisation will design financing programmes, provide loans and conduct studies to identify weaknesses in the financing market.

Cyprus will provide €60 million in initial capital. Over time, the body will also be able to raise funding from European and international institutions and benefit from state guarantees linked to approved strategic priorities.

Recovery Plan Milestone

Creation of the organisation is one of the final milestones under Cyprus’ Recovery and Resilience Plan and is required for the country to receive the plan’s ninth and final payment. Appointment of the board of directors remains the last outstanding step.

Before approving the bill, the Finance Ministry revised the draft following consultations with MPs and stakeholders. The changes removed provisions allowing the organisation to establish companies and narrowed the list of eligible beneficiaries by excluding small mid-cap companies.

Lawmakers also strengthened governance rules by introducing stricter board suitability requirements, conflict-of-interest safeguards, enhanced reporting obligations and borrowing limits. A seven-member board appointed by the Cabinet will oversee the organisation, while a transitional board will serve for two years until it becomes fully operational.