Airport Baggage Handler

An airport baggage handler is responsible for safely and quickly loading, unloading or transporting airline passengers' luggage at an airport.

The main tasks include:

• overseeing the movement of passengers' luggage from the check-in desks
• collecting and sorting items to be loaded onto the correct aircraft
• taking luggage to the appropriate aircraft in a baggage truck
• correctly loading and storing luggage in the hold of the aircraft
• removing luggage from an aircraft as quickly as possible after it has landed
• ensuring the luggage is loaded on the correct carousel in the baggage reclaim area
• reporting any suspicious-looking baggage items to security or the police.

Whilst loading, unloading or transporting baggage, a handler may use lifting equipment and a baggage truck, and they may operate a conveyor belt. They must be able to use this equipment and machinery safely and efficiently. Baggage handlers may be required to lift heavy items.

An airport baggage handler usually works around 37 to 40 hours a week. They usually work in shifts which include evenings, weekends and bank holidays. They work in and around the airport terminal building so much of the work is outside in all weathers.

An airport baggage handler may earn between £11,000 and £16,000 a year with team leaders earning £18,000 a year.

An airport baggage handler should:

• be physically fit
• communicate well with colleagues and passengers
• follow and act on instructions
• be aware of and observe safety procedures at all times
• work quickly and accurately, even under pressure
• be reliable and honest
• enjoy teamwork and have an interest in airport safety and security.

There are more than 5,000 airport baggage handlers in the UK, employed mainly by airport ground handling agents and airport authorities. Seasonal work may be available, due to large increases in the number of travellers in busy holiday periods.

Although no academic qualifications are needed to become an airport baggage handler, a good standard of literacy and numeracy is usually required. Some employers prefer applicants to be 18 years or over. All employers carry out a strict security check, as well as a medical and vision check. Some employers ask for a clean driving or large goods vehicle (LGV) licence.

Training is provided on the job by the employer. Baggage handlers learn how to use the airport equipment and machinery and how to work safely around the airfield, and may work towards a qualification.

To progress in this career it is advisable to gain experience of all aspects of the job, including the operation of machinery and technological equipment, storage logistics and transportation. After several years' experience, it may be possible for baggage handlers to become supervisors or team leaders.

Further details