The 38th IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) will convene from May 19-21, 2026, at the InterContinental Citystars Cairo by IHG, centering on the theme ‘People at the Core. AI at the Edge: Adapting Ground Operations in an Era of AI.’ This premier global event gathers airlines, airports, ground handlers, and manufacturers to address AI’s transformative role in aviation ground services.
Cairo’s preparations, coordinated by the Egyptian Cabinet with IATA and local partners, confirm the venue’s full readiness for international delegates. The agenda kicks off with registration at 08:00 on May 19, followed by an opening plenary and welcome session.
Pre-conference activities include an invitation-only Ground Operations Working Group (GOG) meeting and Charter of Professional Auditors training, both running 09:00-17:00 on May 19. These sessions underscore operational standardization amid AI integration.
The conference drives industry standards and policies, enabling ground handlers to balance human expertise with AI efficiencies. This matters for operational resilience, as AI edges into tasks like resource allocation and safety protocols, potentially cutting delays and costs across global networks.
Exhibitors like INFORM highlight innovations, fostering connections vital for AI-driven ground handling advancements.