IATA Ground Handling Conference 2026: Adapting Ground Operations in an Era of AI

15 April 2026 (Geneva) –  The International Air Transport Association (IATA) will hold the 38th IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) in Cairo, Egypt, from 19–21 May 2026, bringing together industry leaders to address the future of ground operations.

Hosted by EGYPTAIR, the event will focus on the theme “Adapting Ground Operations in an Era of AI.” The conference will examine how human expertise, supported by artificial intelligence and automation, will shape safer, more efficient and resilient ground operations.

“Ground operations are becoming increasingly complex as traffic volumes continue to grow. In parallel, AI and automation are creating new opportunities to manage the challenge. This year’s IGHC will focus on how we can combine technology with the expertise of ground handling professionals to deliver safer, more efficient, and more resilient ground operations. This has particular relevance at this time given that airlines in many parts of the world are operating in high-risk environments and managing fuel supply issues impacting ground operations,” said Monika Mejstrikova, IATA’s Director of Ground Operations.

“EGYPTAIR is proud to host the global ground handling community in Cairo, bringing industry leaders together at a time of increasing operational complexity. As a key aviation hub connecting Africa, the Middle East and beyond, Egypt plays an important role in supporting safe and efficient air transport. IGHC provides a platform to strengthen collaboration across ground handling, share best practices, and advance how people and technology work together to improve safety, efficiency, and operational performance,” said Capt. Ahmed Adel, Chairman of EGYPTAIR.

Speakers and SessionsDr Sameh El Hefny, Minister of Civil Aviation of Egypt, Capt. Ahmed Adel, Chairman of EGYPTAIR Holding Company, Nick Careen, IATA’s Senior Vice President, Operations, Safety and Security, and Mejstrikova will be among the keynote speakers at the event.

The program will include a C-Suite view on strategic priorities such as workforce transformation, capacity constraints and digitalization, along with addressing:

• Practical applications of AI and automation to improve safety, efficiency, and consistency
• Operating in high-risk environments
• Fuel supply cost volatility and operational resilience
• Strengthening the airline–ground handler partnership through shared performance goals
• Human factors in operational performance, including fatigue, workload, and decision-making
• Preparing for the implementation of the EU Ground Handling Regulation in 2028
• Advancing baggage operations through improved data sharing and coordination
• Addressing key safety risks, including mobility aids and undeclared lithium batteries
• The next generation of the Standard Ground Handling Agreement (SGHA)