The 38th IATA Ground Handling Conference has been scheduled for Cairo Egypt from 19 to 21 May 2026 and focuses on Adapting Ground Operations in an Era of AI. EGYPTAIR hosts the event that examines how human expertise combines with artificial intelligence and automation for safer more efficient ground operations.
The programme addresses workforce transformation capacity constraints digitalisation practical AI applications operating in high-risk environments fuel supply volatility and the EU Ground Handling Regulation for 2028. Speakers include Dr Sameh El Hefny Minister of Civil Aviation of Egypt Capt Ahmed Adel of EGYPTAIR Nick Careen and Monika Mejstrikova. Sessions cover baggage operations safety risks such as lithium batteries and the next generation of the Standard Ground Handling Agreement.
The 38th IATA Ground Handling Conference takes place in Cairo from 19 to 21 May 2026.
EGYPTAIR hosts the event with the theme Adapting Ground Operations in an Era of AI.
The programme covers AI applications workforce transformation and fuel supply volatility.
Keynote speakers include representatives from Egypt Civil Aviation EGYPTAIR and IATA.
Sessions address safety risks the EU regulation for 2028 and baggage operations.
Monika Mejstrikova shared ground operations are becoming increasingly complex as traffic volumes continue to grow. In parallel ai and automation are creating new opportunities to manage the challenge. This year IGHC will focus on how we can combine technology with the expertise of ground handling professionals to deliver safer more efficient and more resilient ground operations. This has particular relevance at this time given that airlines in many parts of the world are operating in high-risk environments and managing fuel supply issues impacting ground operations.
Capt Ahmed Adel shared Egyptair is proud to host the global ground handling community in cairo bringing industry leaders together at a time of increasing operational complexity. As a key aviation hub connecting Africa, the Middle East and beyond Egypt plays an important role in supporting safe and efficient air transport. IGHC provides a platform to strengthen collaboration across ground handling share best practices and advance how people and technology work together to improve safety efficiency and operational performance.
