Imagine a fully loaded aircraft making a smooth landing, while ground handling teams work like precision gears—swiftly and efficiently managing baggage handling, passenger guidance, aircraft maintenance, and more. Each operation is critical; even minor oversights can impact flight punctuality and safety. So how does the aviation industry ensure standardized, safe, and efficient ground operations worldwide? The answer lies in the International Air Transport Association's (IATA) Airport Handling Manual (AHM).
More than just a manual, the AHM serves as the industry's bible, providing airports, airlines, and ground service providers with unified, comprehensive standards for ground operations. While IATA's Ground Operations Manual (IGOM) focuses on "how to" perform tasks, the AHM emphasizes "what to do," offering policy-level guidance for standardized procedures.
The recently released AHM 46th Edition (2026) introduces significant revisions across multiple key areas. These updates reflect both evolving industry trends and heightened expectations for safety, efficiency, and service quality. Below, we explore these critical changes to help aviation professionals implement the latest standards and enhance ground operations.
Cargo and Mail Handling: Precision and Safety First
AHM310: Clarified Cargo Policies
The updated manual provides clearer cargo policy explanations and better alignment with IATA's cargo transportation standards. This enables ground staff to more accurately understand and execute cargo handling procedures, reducing operational errors that could lead to damage or delays.
AHM320: Enhanced Cargo Damage Reporting
New references and explanations regarding cargo damage reporting establish a more robust reporting mechanism. This facilitates timely issue identification, root cause analysis, and corrective actions to minimize cargo damage risks.
AHM333: Respect for Life – Updated Human Remains Handling
Significant revisions align human remains and ashes handling with IATA's Care and Transport of Human Remains (CTM) manual. Stricter requirements now govern packaging, isolation, and storage—demonstrating respect for the deceased. For example, packaging must use internationally certified containers to ensure protection during transit, while isolation prevents cross-contamination with other cargo. Dedicated storage areas must maintain appropriate temperature and humidity levels.
AHM345: Modernized Wheelchair/Personal Mobility Device Regulations
Revised guidelines address the increasing use of nickel-metal hydride battery-powered wheelchairs and mobility aids as checked baggage, improving accessibility for passengers with disabilities.
Aircraft Handling and Loading: Details Make the Difference
AHM422: Clarified ULD Management Responsibilities
Updated definitions and new guidance on Unit Load Device (ULD) management clarify service responsibilities, ensuring safer ULD usage and maintenance while boosting loading efficiency.
AHM440: Upgraded Potable Water Standards
Comprehensive revisions align drinking water service guidelines with World Health Organization (WHO) standards, International Health Regulations (IHR 2005), and industry best practices. New protocols cover water sourcing, storage, transportation, and supply to ensure safe drinking water for passengers and crew.
AHM454: Refined Vehicle Securement Requirements
Updated automobile restraint standards now include classifications for hybrid and electric vehicles, requiring tailored securing methods based on vehicle characteristics.
Weight and Balance: Precision for Flight Safety
AHM531: Standardized Passenger and Baggage Weights
Revised weight standards account for route variations, seasonal factors, and passenger demographics to improve load calculation accuracy.
AHM565: Modernized Weight and Balance Data Transmission
Updates reflect technological advancements in data sharing methods, incorporating references to the IATA X565 editor to reduce human errors.
AHM581: Updated ULD/Bulk Cargo Weight Signal Standards
Revised weight signal information standards enhance data reliability for precise aircraft weight distribution.
Management and Safety: Proactive Risk Mitigation
AHM601: Enhanced Operational Documentation Guidance
Revised guidelines help airlines and ground handlers develop comprehensive operational manuals compliant with industry standards.
AHM610: Clarified Safety Risk Management
Clearer safety risk management protocols support more effective safety systems to reduce operational hazards.
AHM621: Strengthened Safety Management Systems
Updates clarify interdependencies between AHM601 and AHM615 while refining safety management system guidance.
Aircraft Movement Control: Optimizing Punctuality
AHM732: New Flight Delay Code Explanations
Added reference tables improve delay cause analysis accuracy, enabling targeted solutions to minimize disruptions.
Ground Service Agreements: Standardized Partnerships
AHM801: Expanded Standard Ground Handling Agreement (SGHA) Guidance
Additional explanatory text helps parties better understand contract terms to reduce disputes.
AHM810/AHM811: Editorial Refinements and Flexible Options
Clearer SGHA language and optional "yellow page" text provide greater contractual flexibility.
AHM820: Aligned Subcontracting Agreement
Revised Standard Ground Handling Subcontract Agreement (SGHSA) maintains consistency with AHM811 updates.
Ground Support Equipment: Technology-Driven Safety
AHM908: New Equipment Classifications
Added manned/unmanned equipment categories improve asset management practices.
AHM913: Refined Throttle Control Standards
Updated Section 6.16 enhances operational safety for precision throttle operations.
AHM920: Improved Cross-Reference Integration
Added AHM904 references strengthen operational coordination.
Ground Operations Training: Building Expertise
AHM1110: Expanded Training Methodologies
Updated definitions and broader guidance on training methods (theoretical, practical, on-the-job) create more comprehensive programs. Revised instructor/assessor qualifications and role definitions incorporate industry feedback.
AHM1111/AHM1120: Harmonized Training Standards
Parallel updates ensure training program consistency across all components.
Appendix A: Refined Training Definitions
Comprehensive terminology updates provide clearer training framework guidance.
Each AHM revision represents the aviation industry's relentless pursuit of higher safety, efficiency, and service quality standards. By thoroughly understanding and implementing these updates, aviation stakeholders can elevate ground operations worldwide—delivering safer, smoother, and more comfortable travel experiences while advancing global aviation development.