Ground Services Workers


Overview

Ground Services Workers

Introduction

Ground service workers play a significant role in the aviation industry. They ensure the safety, security, and comfort of passengers, oversee the loading and unloading of cargo and baggage, and prepare aircraft for flight. Their level of organization determines how smoothly the flight process will be for passengers and flight crew.

Quick Facts


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Median Salary

$45,770

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Employment Prospects

Good

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Minimum Education Level

High School Diploma


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Experience

On-the-job training


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Skills

Interpersonal|Mechanical/Manual Dexterity|Building/Trades


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Personality Traits

Hands On|Realistic|Technical

Earnings

Entry-level workers may initially earn minimum wage. Salaries for more experienced ground services workers vary based on the size and location of the airport and the workers job description and level of experience. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the following annual salary ranges by profession in May 2023:

  • aircraft cargo handling supervisors, $45,770 to $91,400+
  • <...

Work Environment

Ground services areas are typically noisy, hectic, and sometimes dangerous settings as workers go about their duties, luggage and cargo are loaded and unloaded, and heavy equipment and conveyor belts are used to ready an aircraft for flight. Ground services employees often work outdoors in all types of weather. Most ground services workers are required to wear uniforms for security purposes, as...

Outlook

Commercial air travel has been on the upswing since the pandemic, creating more need for airport workers. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, U.S. scheduled passenger airlines employed 544,705 workers in October 2024, an increase over the 452,440 workers in October 2019. Opportunities will be best for those with experience and postsecondary training. The U.S. Department of Lab...