Career - Air cargo handler

Career - Air Cargo Handler

Ever wondered who is offloading the aircraft of all the suitcases? Who is taking care of air cargo?

Both are physical jobs. And they require a lot more than just muscle power.

I found something here and here

Air cargo Handler:

This ramp serviceperson works outdoors on noisy, crowded ramps in all kinds of weather. He or she operates trucks, baggage tugs, conveyors, fork lifts, and other baggage and air freight handling equipment to move baggage, mail sacks, air express shipments and air cargo.

In addition to using this equipment, he or she must do a considerable amount of lifting 50-70 lbs., pushing, pulling, bending, and stretching. They must fasten freight under pressure and time.

They sort, route and load baggage and air cargo to and from various aircraft in a safe and cautious manner. These materials are loaded in the baggage compartments (belly) of the aircraft.

Almost all work is done outdoors and uniforms are required for security purposes. These employees work on arriving and departing aircraft which provides a varying work schedule in accordance to the airlines flight schedule. Shift work is required including holidays and weekends.

Air cargo handler must be able to read, write and speak English proficiently. Must have the ability to accomplish multiple tasks in high pressure, high volume environment. Demonstrated strong communication, organizational, problem solving & interpersonal skills.

It can be summarized as:

• Direct ground crew in the loading, unloading, securing, and staging of aircraft cargo or baggage.

• Determine the quantity and orientation of cargo, compute aircraft center of gravity, and sign the load plan or manifest.

• Load and unload aircraft, perform preflight and post flight aircraft checks, and compute weight and balance

• Ensure the safety and comfort of passengers, secure cargo during flight, and airdrop cargo and personnel.

• Calculate load weights for different aircraft compartments, using charts and computers.

• Confer with customers, supervisors, contractors, and other staff to exchange information and to resolve problems.

• Ensure all governmental regulations, company procedures, and safety and security requirements are followed.

• Calculate the aircraft’s center of gravity and assess the quantity of cargo.

• Operate a variety of equipment, including trucks, forklifts, conveyors and baggage tugs.

• Accompany aircraft as a member of the flight crew to monitor and handle cargo in flight.

• Assist and brief passengers on safety and emergency procedures.