Airport Ground Operations
The highly choreographed logistical processes required to safely prepare an aircraft for its next flight.
Aircraft Arrival & Parking
Upon landing and exiting the runway, the aircraft follows taxiways to its assigned gate. It is guided in by an automated visual docking system or a ground marshaller to stop exactly at the correct line.
Ground Handling Connections
Once engines are shut down, ground crews immediately connect ground power (to provide electricity without running the APU) and pre-conditioned air to maintain cabin temperature.
Passenger & Baggage
The jetbridge is connected for disembarkation. Simultaneously, cargo doors open, and specialized loaders rapidly remove baggage containers (ULDs) while fuel trucks approach.
Refuelling
Aviation fuel is pumped into the aircraft's wing tanks, often directly from underground hydrants via a dispenser truck, carefully calculated based on the next flight plan.
Maintenance Checks
Licensed ground engineers conduct a visual walk-around inspection, checking tires, brake wear, and the exterior of the fuselage and engines for any signs of damage or leaks.
Pushback & Taxi
Once boarding is complete and doors are closed, a specialized tug pushes the heavy aircraft backward away from the terminal. Engines are started, and the aircraft begins taxiing for departure.