AviAssist has launched a new product for Africa’s ground handling industry to help address one of the main threats to safety identified by the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
The new online course on Aeronautical Knowledge for Ground Handling was announced during the 6th Aviation Africa summit, which took place 12-13 September in Kigali, Rwanda.
AviAssist worked with NAC2000 – the only IATA (ISAGO) certified ground handler in Zambia to develop the course as well as industry experts in the Netherlands. Jonathan Lewis, NAC 2000 Managing Director commented: “It is difficult and expensive to continuously train new staff members at both operational and mid management levels.”
He added that, “Many skilled employees have left the industry and are not coming back. Recruiting, training and accrediting new staff can take up to six months. So, it is critical that we retain current staff and find more efficient ways of onboarding new personnel. This course takes away some of the pain for us of onboarding new staff and will help us retain staff too.”
The blended learning course, which was tested by new and experienced ground handling staff in four African countries, consists of curated videos that are watched on demand over a two-week period. The videos are complemented with assessor led live sessions during which participants are assessed for their knowledge. Combined the two elements provide an appreciation of the risks and safety components related to the daily working environment at the airport. The course modules include human factors, dangerous goods, airside safety, container and pallet inspection and aircraft performance with weight and balance.
Speaking at Aviation Africa, Tom Kok, Director of AviAssist said: “We are thrilled that sponsoring of the course by Willis Towers Watson and aircraft manufacturer ATR enabled us to keep the price point for this course low at US$99 per person with a special 25% discount available to Aviation Africa visitors. That means it’s also accessible to smaller handlers and even individuals keen to develop their resume.”
Keeping the cost of the course down also means employers can benefit from affordable induction training which will also help motivate staff and outline further professional development opportunities.
The first intake for the course is on 1 November.
