Ground operations cover everything that happens to an aircraft while it's on the ground at an airport, from takeoff to landing. These activities are crucial for keeping flights safe, on time, and efficient. Proper ground operations help prevent accidents, ensure timely departures and arrivals, and make sure the aircraft is ready for its next flight.
STAGES
SERVICING
The aircraft is refueled, cleaned, and checked for any maintenance issues. Catering and other supplies are also loaded.
LOADING
Baggage, and cargo are loaded onto. Correct loading is essential to maintain the aircraft's balance.
BOARDING
Passengers board the plane before departure and get off after arrival.
PUSHBACK
The aircraft is pushed back from the gate to the taxiway using a tug. This is coordinated with ground control to ensure it’s done safely.
TAXIING
The aircraft moves from the gate to the runway for takeoff. Pilots follow instructions from ground control to navigate the taxiways.
**FLIGHT**
VACATE THE RUNWAY
After touchdown, we need to vacate the runway. Receive taxi instructions and proceed to our assigned parking position.
PARK
When reaching the parking position, we’ll see the marshaller and follow his instructions to safely stop and shutdown
DEPLANING
After that Jetbridge or Airstair is connected, passengers will leave the airplane.
UNLOADING
Ground staff will remove the cargo from the cargo holds.
TURNAROUND
Restart the process for the next flight
RESPONSIBILITIES
COMMUNICATION
Pilots must stay in constant communication with ground control to receive and follow taxiing instructions.
PRE-FLIGHT CHECKS
Before takeoff, pilots need to do thorough pre-flight checks to ensure everything on the aircraft is working correctly.
COORDINATION
Pilots work with ground crew to make sure the aircraft is loaded with the right amount of cargo and fuel and that all servicing tasks are completed.
SITUATIONAL AWARENESS
Pilots must stay alert to avoid collisions and ensure safe taxiing.
FOLLOWING PROCEDRUES
Pilots stick to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and airport rules to make sure all ground operations are conducted safely and efficiently.
COMMON PROBLEMS
RUNWAY INCURSION
This happens when an aircraft, vehicle, or person is on the runway when they shouldn't be, which can lead to serious accidents.
AIRCRAFT DAMAGES
Airframe damage, Tire blowout, lack of thrust, system malfunction, steering problems, etc.
WEATHER
Bad weather like snow, ice, or heavy rain can make ground operations tricky and reduce visibility.
HUMAN ERROR
Mistakes by ground staff or pilots, like incorrect cargo loading or miscommunication, can cause safety issues.
CONGESTION
Busy airports can get crowded, leading to delays and possible refueling before takeoff.