Aviation ground operative
Level 2 · IntermediateTransport and logistics 1 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
An aviation ground operative carries out the physical ground handling tasks that get aircraft safely turned around between flights, including marshalling, loading baggage, towing aircraft, and operating ground support equipment. Apprentices learn to work safely on the airside environment of an airport and follow strict procedures to protect aircraft, cargo, passengers, and colleagues. This role can lead to ramp supervisor, ground handling agent, or specialist airside roles.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Airside safety rules, ground movement procedures, and engine hazard awareness
Aircraft marshalling signals and guiding aircraft on the apron
Baggage and cargo loading principles including hold loading plans
Ground support equipment operation including tugs, belt loaders, and steps
Aircraft towing and pushback procedures under pilot or engineer supervision
De-icing procedures and understanding of ground icing conditions
Dangerous goods awareness and identifying restricted cargo categories
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Marshal arriving and departing aircraft safely on the apron
Load and unload passenger baggage and cargo from aircraft holds
Operate belt loaders, tugs, and other ground support equipment
Complete aircraft pushbacks under the instruction of flight crew
Follow holds loading plans to ensure correct weight distribution
Apply or oversee de-icing treatment to aircraft in winter conditions
Carry out airside safety checks and report hazards or foreign object debris
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 2 (Intermediate) - roughly GCSE level. Often open with few or no formal qualifications - a strong first step. Some employers ask for a couple of GCSEs.
What’s next: Typically leads on to a Level 3 (Advanced) apprenticeship.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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