Issm GRH en

✈ ISSA Checklist
ISSM Edition 3 - effective February 2020
NOTICE
DISCLAIMER. The information contained in this publication is subject to constant review in the light of changing
government requirements and regulations. No subscriber or other reader should act on the basis of any such
information without referring to applicable laws and regulations and/or without taking appropriate professional advice.
Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the International Air Transport Association shall not be held
responsible for any loss or damage caused by errors, omissions, misprints or misinterpretation of the contents hereof.
Furthermore, the International Air Transport Association expressly disclaims any and all liability to any person or
entity, whether a purchaser of this publication or not, in respect of anything done or omitted, and the consequences of
anything done or omitted, by any such person or entity in reliance on the contents of this publication.
© International Air Transport Association. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, recast,
reformatted or transmitted in any form by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or
any information storage and retrieval system, without the prior written permission from:
Senior Vice President
Safety & Flight Operations
International Air Transport Association
800 Place Victoria
P.O. Box 113
Montreal, Quebec
CANADA H4Z 1M1
ISSA Checklist
ISSM Edition 3
© 2020 International Air Transport Association. All rights reserved.
Montreal—Geneva
Reference: DOC.F34 1 of 11 Issue date: January 2020

Effective date: February 2020
✈ ISSA Checklist
Section 6 — Ground Handling Operations (GRH)

Applicability
Section 6 addresses functions within the scope of ground handling operations and is applicable to an
operator that conducts passenger, cargo and/or combi (combined cargo and passenger) aircraft
operations.
Individual GRH provisions or sub-specifications within GRH provision that:
 Begin with a conditional phrase (“If the Operator...”) are applicable if the operator meets the
condition(s) stated in the phrase.
 Do not begin with a conditional phrase are applicable unless determined otherwise by the
Auditor.
Functions within the scope of ground handling operations include:
 Passenger handling
 Baggage handling
 Aircraft handling and loading
 Aircraft ground movement
 Load control
 Aircraft fueling
 Aircraft de-/anti-icing
In this section, non-revenue cargo and mail are addressed in the same way as revenue cargo for the
purposes of handling, loading, securing and transporting. COMAT is non-revenue cargo.
For the purpose of addressing cargo in this section, mail is considered to be an item of cargo. Therefore,
any reference to cargo also includes mail.
Where an operator outsources the performance of functions within the scope of ground handling
operations to external service providers, the operator retains overall responsibility for such functions, and
must demonstrate processes for monitoring the applicable external service providers in accordance with
ORG 3.5.2 located in Section 1 of this manual.
General Guidance
Definitions of technical terms used in this manual, as well as the meaning of abbreviations and acronyms,
are found in the IATA Reference Manual for Audit Programs (IRM).
Procedures used in ground operations are defined in the IATA Ground Operations Manual (IGOM), the
IATA Airport Handling Manual (AHM), IATA Dangerous Good Regulations (DGR) and in other relevant
IATA publications.
Due to revision cycle differences, the IATA documents cited above are typically revised at various times
during the effective period of an ISSM edition. Accordingly, when an IATA document is revised, it could
render an existing reference to specific information in an IATA document to be in error. In such case, the
revised IATA document would have to be searched to find the specific information referenced.
1 Management and Control

✈ ISSA Checklist
1.6 Operational Manuals
GRH 1.6.1 The Operator shall have an Operations Manual, which may be issued in separate parts, that
contains the operational policies, processes, procedures and other information necessary for ground
handling personnel to perform their duties and be in compliance with applicable regulations, laws, rules
and standards of the Operator. (GM)
☐ Documented and Implemented (Conformity)
☐ Documented not Implemented (Finding)
☐ Implemented not Documented (Finding)
☐ Not Documented not Implemented (Finding)
☐ N/A
Auditor Comments:
Click or tap here to enter text.
Auditor Actions
☐ Identified/Assessed ground handling OM or, if applicable, separate documents that comprise the
OM.
☐ Interviewed responsible management representative(s).
☐ Examined selected sections or parts of the ground handling OM (focus: policies, processes,
procedures used by ground handling personnel are included).
☐ Other Actions (Specify)
Guidance
Refer to the IRM for the definition of Operations Manual (OM).
An OM typically includes guidance that addresses areas generic to all functions within the scope of
ground handling operations, as well as parts of the manual that are specific to individual operational
functions.
Because the scope of ground handling operations is broad and varies by operator, rather than publishing
one OM just for ground handling, a smaller operator might choose to incorporate the relevant information
into a larger, comprehensive OM.
An operator could also choose to issue the information in separate documents that are each specific to
the various ground handling operational functions (e.g. passenger handling, baggage handling, aircraft
handling). Each individual document would typically contain generic guidance that is applicable to all
ground handling operational functions (e.g., organizational policies, general definitions), as well as
guidance that is specific to the particular ground handling function or office location (e.g., process
descriptions, standard operating procedures, references to the appropriate regulations and IATA
manuals).
The IGOM contains a core set of operations procedures that may be used by operators in the conduct of
ground handling operations.
If an operator has external organizations conduct ground handling operations functions, such operator
would then be expected to have a monitoring and control process to ensure each external organization
either uses the OM of the operator or has its own published OM that fulfills operational safety, security
and quality requirements of the operator.
2 Training and Qualification

✈ ISSA Checklist
2.1 Training Program
GRH 2.1.1 The Operator shall have a process to ensure personnel who perform operational duties in
functions within the scope of ground handling operations for the Operator, to include personnel of
external service providers, complete:
i. Initial training prior to being assigned to perform such operational duties;

ii. Recurrent training on a frequency in accordance with requirements of the regulatory authority
but not less than once during every 36-month period except recurrent training in dangerous
goods as specified in GRH 2.2.1 or GRH 2.2.2. (GM)

☐ N/A
Auditor Comments:
Auditor Actions
☐ Identified/Assessed training program for ground handling personnel (focus: ensures completion of
initial/recurrent training for personnel in all ground handling functions; includes processes that ensure
personnel of external service providers complete initial/recurrent training).
☐ Interviewed responsible manager(s) in ground handling operations.
☐ Examined selected initial/recurrent course curricula/syllabi (focus: includes initial and recurrent
training programs for all personnel that perform ground handling duties/functions).
☐ Examined initial and recurrent training records of selected personnel (focus: completion of initial and
recurrent training).
☐ Other Actions (Specify).
Guidance
Refer to the Applicability box at the beginning of this section for the functions within the scope of ground
handling operations.
Requirements for initial and recurrent training apply to all operational ground handling personnel who
perform duties within the scope of ground handling operations.
2.2 Program Elements
GRH 2.2.1 If the Operator transports dangerous goods, the Operator shall have a process to ensure
ground handling personnel receive dangerous goods training, to include initial training and recurrent
training, on a frequency in accordance with requirements of the regulatory authority, but not less than
once within 24 months of previous training in dangerous goods. Such training shall be completed by
personnel that perform operational duties in the following functions within the scope of ground handling
operations:

✈ ISSA Checklist
i. Passenger handling;
ii. Baggage handling;
iii. Aircraft loading;
iv. Load control. (GM)

☐ N/A
Auditor Comments:
Auditor Actions
☐ Identified/Assessed dangerous goods training program (focus: defines DG training requirements for
all cargo handling personnel based on specific assigned responsibilities/duty functions).
☐ Examined applicable initial/recurrent dangerous goods training curricula and syllabi (focus: subject
areas appropriate for personnel based on specific responsibilities/duty functions).
☐ Examined training records of selected personnel (focus: completion of required training as
appropriate for assigned responsibilities/duty functions).
Guidance
Recurrent training in dangerous goods is completed within a validity period that expires 24 months from
the previous training to ensure knowledge is current, unless a shorter period is defined by a competent
authority. However, when such recurrent training is completed within the final 3 months of the 24-month
validity period, the new validity period may extend from the month on which the recurrent training was
completed until 24 months from the expiry month of the current validity period. If such recurrent training is
completed prior to the final three months of the validity period, the new validity period would extend 24
months from the month the recurrent training was completed.
The curriculum for dangerous goods training for ground handling personnel will vary depending on
specific responsibilities and duty function(s), but will typically address:
 General philosophy;
 Limitations;
 List of dangerous goods;
 Labeling and marking;
 Recognition of undeclared dangerous goods;
 Storage and loading procedures;
 Flight crew notification;
 Provisions for passengers and crew;
 Emergency procedures.
Refer to DGR 1.5 (Table 1.5.A, Minimum Requirements for Training Curricula) and/or DGR Appendix H
for detailed guidance that addresses dangerous goods training and subjects applicable to specific ground
handling functions.

✈ ISSA Checklist
GRH 2.2.2 If the Operator does not transport dangerous goods, the Operator shall have a process to
ensure ground handling personnel receive dangerous goods training, to include initial training and
recurrent training on a frequency as specified in GRH 2.2.1. Such training shall be completed by
personnel that perform operational duties in the following functions within the scope of ground handling
operations:
i. Passenger handling;
ii. Baggage handling;
iii. Aircraft loading;
iv. Load control. (GM)

☐ N/A
Auditor Comments:
Auditor Actions
☐ Identified/Assessed dangerous goods training program: (focus: defines DG training requirements for
all cargo handling personnel based on specific assigned responsibilities/duty functions).
☐ Examined selected initial/recurrent training curricula/syllabi (focus: subject areas appropriate for
personnel based on specific responsibilities/duty functions).
☐ Examined training records of selected personnel (focus: completion of required training as
appropriate for assigned responsibilities/duty functions).
Guidance
When an operator does not transport dangerous goods (i.e. a “no-carry” operator), dangerous goods
training is still required for ground handling personnel to ensure prohibited dangerous goods are
recognized and are not loaded onto an aircraft.
Dangerous goods training would be structured to provide the requisite knowledge to permit ground
handling personnel to recognize prohibited dangerous goods (whether labeled or not labeled), ensure
such dangerous goods are not inadvertently loaded on an aircraft and apply emergency action in the
event of contamination or a spill.
The curriculum for dangerous goods training for ground handling personnel will vary depending on
specific responsibilities and duty function(s), but will typically address the following subject areas:
 General philosophy;
 Limitations;
 Labeling and marking;
 Recognition of undeclared dangerous goods;
 Provisions for passengers and crew;
 Emergency procedures.
Refer to DGR 1.5 (Table 1.5.B, Minimum Requirements for Training Curricula for “No-carry” Operators)
and/or DGR Appendix H for detailed guidance that addresses dangerous goods training and subjects
applicable to specific ground handling functions.

✈ ISSA Checklist
3 Ground Handling Operations
3.2 Airside Operations
GRH 3.2.2 The Operator shall have safety procedures that are implemented during the conduct of all of
its airside operational activities, to include, but not limited to, aircraft arrival and departure ground
movement operations. (GM)
☐ N/A
Auditor Comments:
Auditor Actions
☐ Identified/Assessed requirement for implementation of safety procedures in the conduct of airside
operational activities.
Guidance
Safety procedures typically address:
 The use of internationally recognized marshalling signals for communication among ground
personnel for the movement of ground support equipment;
 Signals used between ground personnel and the flight crew;
 Verbal phraseology used between ground personnel and the flight crew;
 Standard operating procedures in accordance with recommendations of the aircraft
manufacturer(s) for aircraft pushback, power-back, power-out and/or tow-out, as applicable, for
departure from the parking position, and for aircraft power-in and/or tow-in, as applicable for
arrival into the parking position;
 If applicable, protection of passengers moving between the aircraft and the terminal building
where the apron is utilized for passenger embarkation and disembarkation;
 Foreign object damage (FOD) prevention for apron areas that have aircraft parking or
movement operations;
 Airside fire safety;
 The spillage of fluids and other materials in airside areas;
 An airside severe weather plan.
Refer to IGOM Chapters 3 and 4 for safety procedures used in ground operations.

✈ ISSA Checklist
3.3 Load Control
GRH 3.3.1 The Operator shall ensure a Load Control system is in place that provides for:
i. Aircraft weight and balance conditions that are correct and within limits;
ii. Aircraft loaded in accordance with applicable regulations and specific loading instructions for
the flight;
iii. Dissemination of dangerous goods and other special load information applicable to each flight;
iv. Information, to include last minute changes, that is in agreement with the actual load on the
aircraft and presented on a final load sheet. (GM)

☐ N/A
Auditor Comments:
Auditor Actions
☐ Identified/Assessed Load Control system.
☐ Interviewed responsible manager(s) in load control operations.
☐ Examined checklists/procedures used in the load control process.
Guidance
Refer to the IRM for the definitions of Load, Load Control, Special Load and Weight and Balance Manual
(W&BM).
A load planning system typically entails, as a minimum:
 Assemblage of all data relating to the aircraft load (originating and en route stations);
 Planning of the load for ready accessibility;
 Planning of special loads according to restrictions, maximum quantities, separation and
segregation requirements;
 Consideration of center of gravity parameters affecting aircraft fuel consumption.
Guidance may be found in AHM 551 and 590.
3.4 Aircraft Loading
GRH 3.4.1 The Operator shall ensure procedures are in place that provide for aircraft to be loaded:
i. In accordance with written loading instructions;

ii. In a manner that satisfies weight and balance requirements. (GM)

✈ ISSA Checklist

☐ N/A
Auditor Comments:
Auditor Actions
☐ Identified/Assessed aircraft loading procedures.
☐ Examined examples of documented aircraft loading instructions.
☐ Interviewed personnel that perform aircraft loading.
Guidance
Refer to IGOM 4.5.9, 5.6.1 and 5.6.2, as well as AHM 514 and 590 for additional guidance.
GRH 3.4.3 If the Operator transports dangerous goods as cargo, the Operator shall ensure procedures
are in place for the loading and securing of dangerous goods on an aircraft in a manner that:
i. Prevents damage to packages and containers during aircraft loading and unloading;
ii. Provides for separation and segregation in accordance with applicable requirements;
iii. Prevents any movement in the aircraft. (GM)

☐ N/A
Auditor Comments:
Auditor Actions
☐ Identified/Assessed procedures for loading/securing dangerous goods on aircraft.
☐ Interviewed personnel that perform aircraft loading.
Guidance
Refer to IGOM 4.5.1 and DGR 9.3 for guidance that addresses the loading and securing of dangerous
goods.

✈ ISSA Checklist
4 Special Aircraft Ground Handling Operations
4.1 Aircraft Fueling
GRH 4.1.1 The Operator shall have a process to ensure fuel suppliers are maintaining standards of fuel
safety and quality acceptable to the Operator and fuel delivered and loaded onto aircraft is:
i. Of the correct grade and specification for each aircraft type;

ii. Free from contamination. (GM)

☐ N/A
Auditor Comments:
Auditor Actions
☐ Identified/Assessed process for monitoring of fuel quality at all locations where aircraft are refueled.
☐ Examined selected quality control inspection reports (focus: fuel supply quality management).
Guidance
The intend of this standard is to ensures fuel is stored, handled and serviced in accordance with
accepted standards.
Approved fuel specifications are contained in each aircraft manual.
To ensure fuel corresponds to the specifications and grade of product necessary for the applicable
aircraft type(s), a control process is typically in place at each location where the operator has aircraft
fueling operations. Such process ensures the existence of periodic inspections of critical aspects of the
fuel supply system at each applicable location, to include, as a minimum:
 Fuel facilities;
 Safety and quality procedures;
 Performance levels of personnel.
Processes for ensuring fuel is of the correct grade and free of contamination may be documented in
maintenance, ground operations or flight operations manuals, or in a combination thereof. If the Operator
uses biofuels, additional procedures would typically address the related specific requirements (i.e.
dedicated infrastructures and blending requirements).
Additional guidance may be found in the IFQP (IATA Fuel Quality Pool) Quality and Safety Procedures,
and in the AEA Recommendations for De-icing/Anti-icing of Aircraft on the Ground.

✈ ISSA Checklist
4.2 Aircraft De-/Anti-icing
GRH 4.2.1 If the Operator conducts flights from any airport when conditions are conducive to ground
aircraft icing, the Operator shall have a De-/Anti-icing Program, which, if applicable, is approved by the
Authority and, as a minimum:
i. Ensures adherence to the Clean Aircraft Concept;

ii. Defines responsibilities within the Program;
iii. Addresses applicable locations within the route network;
iv. Defines areas of responsibility;
v. Specifies technical and operational requirements;
vi. Specifies training and qualification requirements;
vii. Is applicable to external service providers that perform de-/anti-icing functions for the Operator.
(GM)
Note:
This ISARP is applicable to both commercial and non-commercial operations.
☐ N/A
Auditor Comments:
Auditor Actions
☐ Identified/Assessed approved aircraft de-/anti-icing program.
☐ Examined de-/anti-icing program at selected airports.
☐ Examined reports that detail past de-/anti-icing operations at selected airports.
Guidance
Refer to the IRM for the definitions of De-/Anti-icing Program and Clean Aircraft Concept.
A de-/anti-icing program would address not only commercial operations at an applicable airport but, if
applicable, non-commercial operations as well (e.g. positioning flights, test flights, training flights).
The scope and details of a de-/anti-icing program would typically be commensurate with the frequency
and complexity of operations at airports with the potential for ground icing conditions.
Additional guidance may be found in ICAO Doc 9640-AN/940, Manual of Aircraft Ground
De-icing/Anti-icing Operations, Chapter 7, and in SAE AS6285, Aircraft Ground Deicing/Anti-Icing
Processes. The latter is used as the basis for inspections conducted under the IATA De-Icing/Anti-Icing
Quality Control Pool (DAQCP).


Issm GRH en

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Issm GRH en

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Issm GRH en

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

✈ ISSA Checklist

ISSM Edition 3 - effective February 2020

Reference: DOC.F34 1 of 11 Issue date: January 2020

Section 6 — Ground Handling Operations (GRH)

Functions within the scope of ground handling operations include:

1 Management and Control

Reference: DOC.F34 2 of 11 Issue date: January 2020

1.6 Operational Manuals

2 Training and Qualification

Reference: DOC.F34 3 of 11 Issue date: January 2020

2.1 Training Program

i. Initial training prior to being assigned to perform such operational duties;

☐ Documented and Implemented (Conformity)

2.2 Program Elements

Reference: DOC.F34 4 of 11 Issue date: January 2020

☐ Documented and Implemented (Conformity)

Reference: DOC.F34 5 of 11 Issue date: January 2020

☐ Documented and Implemented (Conformity)

Reference: DOC.F34 6 of 11 Issue date: January 2020

3 Ground Handling Operations

3.2 Airside Operations

Reference: DOC.F34 7 of 11 Issue date: January 2020

3.3 Load Control

☐ Documented and Implemented (Conformity)

Guidance may be found in AHM 551 and 590.

3.4 Aircraft Loading

i. In accordance with written loading instructions;

Reference: DOC.F34 8 of 11 Issue date: January 2020

☐ Documented and Implemented (Conformity)

☐ Documented and Implemented (Conformity)

Reference: DOC.F34 9 of 11 Issue date: January 2020

4 Special Aircraft Ground Handling Operations

4.1 Aircraft Fueling

i. Of the correct grade and specification for each aircraft type;

☐ Documented and Implemented (Conformity)

Reference: DOC.F34 10 of 11 Issue date: January 2020

4.2 Aircraft De-/Anti-icing

i. Ensures adherence to the Clean Aircraft Concept;

Reference: DOC.F34 11 of 11 Issue date: January 2020

You might also like