Airport Baggage Handler / Ramp Agent
Baggage handlers (sometimes referred to as ramp agents) work as part of an airport’s ground services team, loading and unloading baggage and helping aircraft prepare for arrival and departure. Also known as ramp agents, their role can include operating ground equipment and, once trained, assisting with aircraft towing, pushback and de-icing.
This is a practical, physically demanding job involving outdoor work in all weathers. Shift patterns can include early mornings, evenings, weekends and bank holidays.
Day-to-day tasks
In this role you could:
- Sort baggage for departing flights, using scanning systems to make sure it goes onto the correct aircraft.
- Load and unload baggage manually or using specialist equipment.
- Move baggage between the terminal and aircraft, and transfer arriving luggage to baggage reclaim.
- Operate, position and remove ground support equipment safely.
- Check working areas for hazards and carry out aircraft and equipment inspections.
- Report damaged baggage, equipment faults, hazards and incidents.
- Carry out aircraft towing and pushback duties once trained and authorised.
- Use a headset to communicate with the flight deck during aircraft ground movements.
- Help de-ice aircraft during winter operations, following specialist training.
- Follow airport security procedures and health and safety requirements.
Skills & knowledge
You'll need:
- The ability to work well as part of a team.
- Physical fitness, stamina and coordination for lifting and moving baggage.
- Good communication and listening skills.
- Concentration and attention to detail.
- The ability to remain calm and work safely under pressure.
- An understanding of safety and security procedures.
- Confidence using scanners and other handheld devices.
- A willingness to follow instructions and complete training.
- Flexibility to work shifts.
Industry Qualifications
Training for the local role is provided through the employer, with staff trained before carrying out specialist duties. This includes baggage handling, operating ground support equipment, aircraft towing and pushback, headset communication and aircraft de-icing.
You will need to provide identification and supporting documents to obtain the necessary airport security clearance. You are also likely to need a criminal record check and a full driving licence.