EGYPTAIR to Host IATA Ground Handling Conference Highlighting Technology, Safety, and Industry Collaboration

EGYPTAIR to Host IATA Ground Handling Conference Highlighting Technology, Safety, and Industry Collaboration

(IN SHORT) The International Air Transport Association will host the 38th IATA Ground Handling Conference in Cairo in May 2026, bringing together aviation leaders to address the growing complexity of ground operations in the context of rising air traffic and technological change. With a central focus on the role of artificial intelligence and automation, the event will explore how innovation can be combined with human expertise to improve safety, efficiency, and resilience. Industry leaders and policymakers will discuss key challenges such as workforce transformation, operational risks, fuel supply volatility, and regulatory developments, while also examining advancements in baggage handling, safety management, and collaboration between airlines and ground handlers. Hosted by EGYPTAIR, the conference underscores Egypt’s role as a major aviation hub and highlights the importance of global cooperation in shaping the future of ground handling operations.

(PRESS RELEASE) GENEVA, Switzerland, 2026-Apr-15 — /Travel PR News/ — The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has announced that the 38th edition of its IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) will take place in Cairo from 19 to 21 May 2026, bringing together global aviation leaders to explore the evolving landscape of ground operations. Hosted by EGYPTAIR, the event will center on the theme Adapting Ground Operations in an Era of AI, highlighting the growing role of artificial intelligence and automation in shaping the future of the sector.

The conference will focus on how technological innovation, combined with human expertise, can enhance operational safety, efficiency, and resilience. As global air traffic continues to increase, ground handling operations are becoming more complex, prompting the industry to explore advanced solutions to manage capacity challenges and maintain high operational standards.

Monika Mejstrikova emphasized that the integration of AI and automation offers valuable opportunities to address rising operational demands. She pointed to the importance of aligning technological advancements with the expertise of ground handling professionals, particularly as airlines navigate increasingly challenging environments, including high-risk operating conditions and fuel supply disruptions.

Ahmed Adel noted that hosting IGHC in Cairo reflects Egypt’s strategic role as an aviation hub connecting Africa, the Middle East, and other global regions. He highlighted the conference as a platform for strengthening collaboration across the industry, sharing best practices, and advancing the integration of human and technological capabilities to improve overall performance and safety.

The event will feature keynote contributions from prominent industry figures, including Sameh El Hefny and Nick Careen, alongside other senior executives. Discussions will cover a wide range of strategic and operational topics, including workforce transformation, digitalization, and the challenges posed by capacity constraints.

Key sessions will explore practical uses of AI and automation in improving safety and operational consistency, strategies for operating in high-risk environments, and approaches to managing fuel cost volatility while maintaining resilience. Additional topics will include enhancing airline–ground handler collaboration through shared performance objectives, addressing human factors such as fatigue and decision-making, and preparing for the implementation of the European Union’s Ground Handling Regulation in 2028.

Further discussions will examine advancements in baggage operations through improved data sharing, as well as critical safety concerns such as the handling of mobility aids and the risks associated with undeclared lithium batteries. The conference will also look ahead to the next evolution of the Standard Ground Handling Agreement (SGHA), a key framework guiding industry practices.

IGHC 2026 will be open to accredited members of the press, offering a comprehensive platform for dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders shaping the future of global ground operations.

IGHC is open to accredited members of the press.

> View the IGHC program and details

For more information, please contact:

Corporate Communications

Tel: +41 22 770 2967

Email: corpcomms@iata.org