What is Ground Handling? Why to Consider Using a Flight Support Provider?

What is Ground Handling?

Ground handling refers to the various services that are required to support an aircraft while it is on the ground at an airport. These services can include things like marshalling the aircraft to its parking position, providing steps for passengers to board and disembark the aircraft, refueling the aircraft, and loading and unloading baggage and cargo.

For a private aircraft, the ground handling services may be provided by the owner or operator of the aircraft, or they may be contracted out to a third-party ground handling or a flight support provider. These services are typically arranged in advance and can vary depending on the specific needs of the aircraft and its passengers.

What Services Are Covered by Ground Handlers?

Some common examples of ground handling services for a private aircraft include:

1. 1. Marshalling: This involves guiding the aircraft to its parking position using hand signals or light wands.
   2. Boarding and disembarking: Providing stairs or a mobile platform for passengers to board and disembark the aircraft.
   3. Refueling: Arranging for the aircraft to be refueled as needed.
   4. Baggage handling: Loading and unloading passenger and cargo baggage from the aircraft.
   5. Lavatory service: Emptying and restocking the lavatories on the aircraft.
   6. Cabin cleaning: Cleaning the interior of the aircraft after each flight.
   7. Aircraft maintenance: Performing routine maintenance or repairs on the aircraft as needed.
   8. Catering: Arranging for meals and beverages to be provided for the passengers on board the aircraft.
   9. Passenger assistance: Providing assistance to passengers, such as visa assistance, hotel booking, airport pickup and transportation.
   10. Crew assistance: Providing amenities and assistance to the crew, such as accommodations and transportation.

Is It Possible for a Flight Support Provider to Offer Ground Handling Services?

Flight support providers offer a range of services to help private aircraft operators plan, manage, and execute their flights, and ground handling services can be included as part of this package. So yes, It is possible for a flight support provider to offer ground handling services.

MoonJet offers extended ground handling services covering hundreds of  locations as part of our overall package of services.Flight support providers can also help with tasks such as obtaining overflight and landing permits, arranging for ground transportation and accommodations, and coordinating with local authorities and service providers to ensure that all necessary arrangements are in place for the aircraft’s arrival and departure. In addition to all of these services MoonJet also provide flight planning, weather briefing, and flight following to help ensure that your flights are safe and efficient.

Why to Procure Ground Handling from a Flight Support Provider?

There are a few reasons why it might be more convenient or cost-effective to use a flight support company to provide these services rather than doing it directly:

1. 1. 1. Cost:
         It can be more cost-effective to use a third-party provider, especially if you only operate a private aircraft on a part-time basis. Flight support providers often have economies of scale that allow them to provide these services at a lower cost. At MoonJet we pride ourselves on providing cost-efficient services to operators of all size.
      2. Expertise:
         Flight support providers specialize in providing these services and they have a team of trained professionals who are experienced in handling a variety of aircraft. MoonJet flight support team is comprised of industry professionals who are passionate about their work, and have an extensive background in aviation, flight panning and dispatch.
      3. Convenience:
         Using a third-party flight support company can be more convenient because it allows you to outsource these tasks and focus on other aspects of your business or personal travel. It can also be more convenient for passengers, as the ground handling company can provide a range of amenities and assistance to make their travel experience more enjoyable.
      4. Access to a wider coverage:
         A good flight support provider should be able to help you operate without geographical restrictions due to economies of scale they have the ability to work directly with many ground handling agents in several locations. At MoonJet thanks to our wide network of professional ground handling agents we can arrange ground handling services even in the most diverse locations anywhere around the globe.
      5. Access to a wider range of services:
         A flight support provider may be able to provide a wider range of services than you could on your own, for example at MoonJet we can offer catering, flight planning, weather briefing, alongside coordination with airport and aviation authorities.

How to Ensure Working with a Suitable Flight Support Provider?

There are a few steps you can take to ensure that a flight support provider is suitable for your needs:

1. 1. 1. Research the company’s reputation and experience:Look for reviews and testimonials from other customers to get an idea of the quality of service the company provides. You can also ask the company for references or check with industry organizations or trade associations to see if they have any recommendations. Contact our dedicated sales representative in your region or fill the contact us form and we are happy to share MoonJet’s clientele, testimonials and references.
      2. Ask about their capabilities:Make sure that the company has the necessary equipment and personnel to handle your specific type of aircraft. MoonJet team is available around the clock to answer your queries don’t hesitate contacting us.
      3. Inquire about their safety record:Safety is a top priority when it comes to ground handling services, so it is important to choose a company with a good safety record. Ask the company about their safety policies and procedures and how they ensure that their employees are trained and qualified to handle your aircraft safely. MoonJet follows the highest safety standards and our team is regularly trained on the latest aviation and operational safety practices.
      4. Get a detailed quote:Request a detailed quote from the company that outlines the services they will provide and the costs involved. This will help you understand exactly what you will be paying for and make it easier to compare quotes from multiple companies. MoonJet has a dedicated trip cost estimation team ready to help you navigate the different costs involved in operating a specific aircraft type or operating to a specific location/route.