EASA Tightens Ground Handling Standards with New EU Regulation
Article submitted by: Challenge Group
Written by: Gianluca Marcangelo, Head of Industry Relations and Marketing
The introduction of Regulation (EU) 2025/24, amending Regulation (EU) No 965/2012, marks a pivotal advancement in the oversight of ground handling services within the European Union. This regulation aims to transition ground handling organizations from a framework of self-regulation to one of standardized regulatory compliance, thereby enhancing safety and operational consistency across EU airports.
For airlines, this development is a welcome progression.
Ground handling service providers will now be subject to uniform regulations, ensuring a consistent level of safety and service quality. Many of these regulatory requirements align with existing International IATA standards, which numerous operators have already integrated into their procedures. Consequently, the transition is expected to be seamless for airlines that have proactively adopted these standards.
From the perspective of ground handlers,
the regulation introduces formal compliance obligations, including the development of comprehensive operational manuals and adherence to standardized training programs. While these requirements may entail initial financial investments to align with the new standards, they are not anticipated to be extraordinary. The regulation provides a three-year transition period, allowing organizations ample time to adapt their operations and training programs to meet compliance deadlines.
Overall, the implementation of Regulation (EU) 2025/24 is set to elevate the safety and efficiency of ground handling services within the EU. By establishing a harmonized regulatory framework, it fosters a safer and more reliable aviation environment, benefiting all stakeholders involved.