IGHC 2025 to focus on people, processes, and performance

The IATA Ground Handling Conference 2025 (IGHC 2025) will be held in Nairobi, Kenya, from May 13 to 15, 2025, hosted by Kenya Airways. This event, marking its first hosting on the African continent, aims to enhance the effectiveness of ground handling in aviation.

Key Focus Areas

The theme for this year’s conference emphasizes the need to modernize ground operations, invest in employee development, and improve coordination within the aviation sector.

“Ground handling is critical for the safety, efficiency, and resilience of the entire aviation industry. Our key focus this year is to ‘elevate’ performance in the ground handling sector.” — Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

“The focus is on modernizing operations, workforce investments, and enhancing collaboration.”

Notable Speakers

The conference will feature key addresses from:

• His Excellency Dr. William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya
• Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General
• Allan Kilavuka, CEO of Kenya Airways

Conference Highlights

Sessions will cover topics such as:

• Reliability of Ground Support Equipment (GSE)
• Real-time baggage tracking and modern messaging standards
• Innovation in airport-ground handler collaboration

In recognition of the role of ground handling in Africa’s aviation growth, President Ruto expects attendance from aviation regulators across the continent.

“Aviation has immense potential to foster economic development in Africa. Hosting IGHC in Kenya underscores our commitment to advancing the aviation sector.” — William Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya.

“Kenya Airways is proud to host this pivotal event, reflecting our mission to innovate and strengthen partnerships in aviation.” — Allan Kilavuka, CEO of Kenya Airways.