Airport Baggage Handler

Baggage handlers sort, load and move air travellers' luggage. It is their role to make sure each bag gets to the right place: on a departing plane, or in the arrivals hall for collection by its owner. They must do so as quickly as possible, while ensuring safety at all times.

A baggage handler may:

• supervise and sort bags as they move through the airport
• load items into hold containers and drive them to aeroplanes
• load bags into aircraft holds, following written instructions
• unload bags from newly arrived flights
• deal with any damaged items or discrepancies
• locate and extract any bag from the hold, if a passenger checks in but does not board
• stay alert for suspicious baggage and report any concerns at once.

The role involves operating the baggage system, a series of interlinked chutes and conveyor belts. Handlers also use lifting equipment and baggage trucks. Bar-coding or microchip systems may be used to track luggage.

Baggage handlers work shifts, to cover the airport's operating hours. This can include early starts and late nights, and working on some weekends and public holidays.

Working outdoors and at height is part of the job. Baggage handlers wear a uniform and protective clothing.

Salaries start from around £14,000, and may rise to £22,500 for team leaders.

It is important to be:

• physically fit
• swift and accurate
• observant
• good at team work
• able to follow instructions
• trustworthy
• able to juggle tasks and solve problems
• responsible
• flexible.

Baggage handlers are employed by airports, and by agents who handle airport ground services.

There are no set qualifications, but most employers expect GCSEs (A*-C), including English and maths.

Baggage handlers usually need to be at least 18. They must pass medical, vision and criminal checks.

Training is on the job. It is possible to study for several relevant vocational qualifications.

Baggage handlers with experience can take on team leader or training roles. They may also take on ramp responsibilities, preparing aircraft for flight.

Further details