Aircraft Ground Handling Checklist

Checklists are helpful for general aircraft services as well as more technical maintenance procedures. Aviation systems are highly technical, and system-specific checklists can guide ground operations professionals who work on aircraft engines or powerplants as well as induction and ignition systems.

Induction systems on aircraft draw outside air through an intake port. The air mixes with fuel, and this mixture combusts in the engine cylinder. An induction checklist can cover all of the measures necessary to maintain or repair this system. For instance, inspecting the condition of an air filter in the induction intake port and determining whether this component should be cleared or replaced is a maintenance task that could go on an induction checklist.

Ground operations checklists can cover all flight services performed on the ground. Specialized checklists for different types of services, such as ramp or passenger service, provide particular aviation staff with guidance geared toward increasing observation of safety standards or promoting customer satisfaction.

Several general measures fall under the category of ground operations. Based on the needs of an aviation enterprise, these tasks and processes can be covered in a full ground operations checklist or on sub-checklists pertaining to specific systems or services. Here are a few departure preparation measures that an enterprise could include on either general or specific ground operations checklists:

• Maneuvering: Checklists can guide ground personnel through landing and marshaling procedures to prevent collisions and account for jet efflux.
• Loading: Baggage, cargo or freight loading checklists can also ensure proper loading of aircraft and handling of dangerous goods.
• Fueling: Fueling is an essential part of ground operations that must be done in accordance with safety standards to prevent spills and fires.
• De-icing: Aircraft ground or engine core and fan de-icing may be necessary safety measures in preparation for takeoff.

Each of these processes involves a number of tasks. Granular checklists can account for all of the individual elements that go into each of these measures, while broader lists can compile ground service checks and indicate which processes are complete and which measures still need to be done prior to takeoff. Decision-makers should determine which approach to checklists is more likely to encourage aviation employees to consistently prioritize safety and regulatory compliance.

Safety is a primary concern in aircraft ground operations and handling. The risks that are involved in these occupations can range from personal injury to damage to aircraft or equipment. Ground handling environments are often high-traffic, noisy workspaces that require professionals to focus in all lighting and weather conditions.

Requiring staff to complete digital checklists can be an effective way to promote risk awareness and prevention in ground operations. Training and periodic safety meetings for continuing education can also promote a culture of safety. In day-to-day operations, completed checklists and signed documents serve as proof of due diligence with regard to safety standards and regulations.

Many airlines and aviation companies have a number of ground service staff in one or more locations or rely on third-party contractors for provision of services. Checklists can be used to standardize recommended measures for maintaining and servicing aircraft in every location.

Ramp services also involve a wide range of measures that are taken by multiple technicians and staff. Checklists can be useful to workers during service for indicating which tasks are complete and the measures that still must be taken to prepare an aircraft for flight. Once ground services are complete, these materials indicate adherence to safety compliance and service measures.

Checklists are useful documents for logistical, technical and service-based applications. From the planning measures involved in sorting baggage and assigning gates for flights to the steps involved in maneuvering, loading and fueling planes, general ground handling checklists or more specific checklists intended for completion by dedicated staff can account for all of the following processes:

• Baggage Sorting: Checklists for loading and off-loading baggage or freight can ensure that planes are loaded in accordance with safety standards.
• Gate Assignment: Airport authorities coordinate gate assignments with ground operations to indicate locations for ground services and boarding.
• Ground Services: Ground services such as wheel chocks, bridges or stairs for passengers are connected to an aircraft while on-stand, as well as ground electrical service and air conditioning units for ramp service.
• Marshaling: Marshaling commences as an aircraft approaches a parking stand and continues through engine starting assistance.

Comprehensive ground handling checklists can be lengthy and complex documents. Breaking checklists down into sections and distributing sub-checklists to relevant staff can make these materials more accessible in the moment and enable all of the completed checklists to serve as detailed records of ground handling practices.

Digital checklists have several advantages over paper checklists for use in aviation. The ability to fill out a checklist on a smartphone or tablet can facilitate the distribution, completion and submission of documentation. A workflow management platform such as Fluix also simplifies access permissions management and can provide form filling functionality.

Aviation employees and third-party contractors can fill out and submit digital checklists without having to secure and carry around papers and writing instruments. Digital forms are also resistant to damage and cannot be misplaced, even if an access device gets damaged or lost. It is also easier to process and store digital records rather than have to gather and digitize responses and signatures that are made on paper checklists.

The conceptual work of breaking down complex ground handling and operations processes into discrete tasks also facilitates automation. In order to automate any aspect of operations, stakeholders should be aware of all of the component tasks involved and how responsibilities are assigned. Automating measures that do not always require manual input can streamline operations and reduce error rates.

Checklists can keep all of the staff of an operations control center, airport or airline on the same page. From providing documentation to supporting expedited approval processes with document signing capabilities, Fluix offers code-free automation and digitalization solutions for aviation enterprises that can increase workflow efficiency and promote productivity and safety.