The International Air Transport Association (IATA) will host the 38th IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) from 19–21 May 2026 in Cairo, bringing together global aviation leaders to address the future of ground operations in an increasingly technology-driven environment.
Hosted by EgyptAir, the conference will centre around the theme “Adapting Ground Operations in an Era of AI,” reflecting the industry’s growing focus on integrating artificial intelligence with human expertise to enhance safety, efficiency, and operational resilience.
As global air traffic continues to rise, ground handling—often considered the backbone of aviation operations—is facing mounting challenges, including operational complexity, safety risks, and cost pressures. The conference will explore how AI and automation can be deployed to improve turnaround times, reduce human error, and ensure consistency across airport operations.
Key discussions will also address high-risk operational environments, fuel supply volatility, and the critical role of human factors such as fatigue management and decision-making in ensuring safety. With regulatory changes on the horizon, including the European Union’s upcoming ground handling framework in 2028, stakeholders will deliberate on preparedness and compliance strategies.
Innovation in baggage handling systems, particularly through enhanced data sharing and coordination, is expected to be another major focus area. Additionally, safety concerns related to mobility aids and undeclared lithium batteries will be highlighted, reflecting growing risks in modern aviation ecosystems.
The conference will also emphasise stronger collaboration between airlines and ground handling service providers, with a push towards shared performance metrics and standardisation. Advancements in the next generation of the Standard Ground Handling Agreement (SGHA) are expected to play a key role in streamlining global operations.
Prominent speakers include Sameh El Hefny, Ahmed Adel, Nick Careen, and Monika Mejstrikova, who will share insights on navigating the evolving aviation landscape.
Strategically, the choice of Cairo as the host city highlights its growing importance as an aviation hub connecting Africa, the Middle East, and global markets. The conference is expected to reinforce the industry’s shift towards a more resilient, technology-enabled operational framework, where AI and human expertise work in tandem to meet future demands.
