The International Air Transport Association (IATA) will host the 38th IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) in Cairo, Egypt, from May 19–21, 2026, bringing together global aviation leaders to discuss the future of ground operations.
The event will be hosted by EgyptAir and will focus on the theme “Adapting Ground Operations in an Era of AI,” highlighting how artificial intelligence and automation are reshaping airport ground services alongside human expertise.
IATA Director of Ground Operations Monika Mejstrikova said rising traffic volumes and increasing operational complexity are driving the need for smarter solutions, noting that AI and automation can help improve safety, efficiency, and resilience in ground handling operations, particularly in high-risk environments and amid ongoing fuel supply challenges in some regions.
EgyptAir Chairman Capt. Ahmed Adel said hosting the conference in Cairo reflects Egypt’s strategic position as an aviation hub connecting Africa, the Middle East, and global markets. He added that the event will strengthen cooperation across the ground handling sector and support improvements in safety, efficiency, and operational performance.
The conference will feature senior aviation leaders, including Egypt’s Minister of Civil Aviation, Sameh El-Hefny, alongside IATA senior officials and industry executives.
Discussions will focus on key industry priorities such as workforce transformation, capacity constraints, digitalisation, operational resilience in high-risk environments, and fuel cost volatility.
Other topics include improving airline–ground handler coordination, human factors in performance, baggage handling data sharing, safety risks linked to mobility aids and lithium batteries, and preparations for the upcoming EU Ground Handling Regulation set for 2028.
The agenda will also explore the next generation of the Standard Ground Handling Agreement (SGHA), aimed at modernising global ground service frameworks and improving industry-wide consistency.
