IATA urges digital aviation modernisation to reduce aircraft damage, improve safety, and boost efficiency across global ground operations

The International Air Transport Association, IATA, has called for urgent digital aviation modernisation across global ground handling operations on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, warning that persistent aircraft damage and inefficient systems continue to threaten safety and cost efficiency in the aviation sector.

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IATA Director of Ground Operations, Monika Mejstrikova, made the appeal while addressing industry stakeholders, stressing that aircraft ground damage remains one of the most expensive and recurring operational risks facing airlines and airports worldwide.

Mejstrikova noted that more than 29,000 aircraft ground damage incidents were recorded in 2025 alone, describing the trend as unsustainable without coordinated technological reform across the sector.

She said, “Aircraft ground damage is one of the most persistent operational and financial risks in ground handling, with more than 29,000 aircraft ground damage events reported in 2025. Unless we reduce the rate of these incidents, costs will multiply as the industry grows.”

She added that reform must go beyond safety to include environmental efficiency, highlighting electric ground support equipment and enhanced systems as critical tools for improvement.

IATA also disclosed that its Enhanced Ground Support Equipment Recognition Programme, launched in 2024, has already received over 450 applications, with 187 stations validated and 75 formally recognised for risk reduction improvements.

The association explained that outdated and disconnected systems remain a major challenge, contributing to errors in baggage handling, aircraft loading and operational coordination across airports.

Mejstrikova warned that fragmented data systems continue to create avoidable risks, stating that delayed information and manual processes often result in misplaced baggage and incorrect aircraft loading.

IATA further revealed that nearly 38,000 loading errors were reported in 2025, underscoring the urgency for digital aviation modernisation across the industry.

The body said emerging digital tools, including the X565 data standard, are already helping to replace manual workflows with faster and more accurate systems, with major manufacturers such as Boeing and Airbus supporting adoption across key aircraft families.

It also noted that airlines using digital load control systems have recorded reductions of more than 90 per cent in loading errors, alongside improved turnaround times and fewer operational delays.

According to IATA, ongoing initiatives such as real-time baggage tracking systems and de-icing data platforms are expected to further strengthen safety oversight and improve global operational standards.

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The association maintained that stronger collaboration between airlines, airports and ground handlers will be essential to achieving a fully modernised, safer and more efficient aviation ecosystem.