Airport baggage handler
Load passengers' luggage on and off planes and around the airport so everything gets to its destination safely and securely.
Also known as: ramp hand, ramp agent, luggage handler, airport operative, airline porter
About the job
What it's like
You would load people's luggage on and off planes between flights and move it around the airport.
You'd be responsible for making sure that all the suitcases and cargoes are quickly and carefully delivered for so that people can collect them or they are transferred on to the next flight.
You'd make sure that that nothing is lost or broken and that the passengers and planes are safe and secure.
You would:
collect, sort and check luggage against flight lists, making sure that the right items go on to the right aircraft
transfer luggage from the check-in areas to the departure areas
use trucks, cargo loaders and conveyor belts to move luggage to and from the aircraft
load luggage on to conveyors in the arrivals hall
store freight cargoes in warehouses ready for distribution
move freight and load it on and off the aircraft
clean and de-ice aircraft
keep the runways clear of debris and snow in winter
As an experienced handler, you could work as a 'lead ramp hand', lining up aircraft ready for the next flight. You might also train staff on new equipment and procedures.
You'd need some basic mechanical knowledge to work with conveyors and lifting equipment.
Hours
You are likely to work on a shift system, covering a basic 39-hour week. Shifts could last up to 12 hours and include evenings, weekends and public holidays. Work may be seasonal, depending on the needs of the airport
Environment
You would work inside airport terminal buildings and cargo warehouses, and outdoors in all weathers. You could also sometimes work in small spaces, like an aircraft hold.
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
Other careers that you might like
Flight dispatcher
Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Tourism
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Top specialised skills
These are the top specialised skills that have been found in job vacancies across Scotland. From March 2024 to March 2025.
- hazardous material handling
- airport security
- recycling
- waste removal
- occupational safety and health
- resourcing
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- taking responsibility
- time management
- attention to detail
- verbal communication
- cooperating
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Skills for Work: Travel and Tourism
There are no formal qualifications required to enter this role but some employers may ask for qualifications at SCQF Level 4/5.
A driving licence.
To be approved for membership of the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme run by Disclosure Scotland.
To be over 18 years of age.
You may need to pass a medical check.
Find the right course for you
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Airport baggage handler'
