Diploma in Airport Cargo

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

1. Introduction to Air Cargo Operations

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

• Explain the structure of the global air cargo industry, including the roles of airlines, freight forwarders, and ground handling agents.
• Identify different types of cargo and their specific handling requirements.
• Describe the end‑to‑end process of airport cargo operations from acceptance to delivery.
• Apply international standards (ICAO/IATA) to basic cargo operations.
• Evaluate the importance of air cargo in global trade and supply chain management.
• Demonstrate awareness of career pathways and professional roles in airport cargo logistics.

2. Cargo Handling & Storage Procedures

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

• Apply safe handling techniques for general, perishable, and special cargo.
• Demonstrate correct loading, unloading, and storage procedures in compliance with IATA Cargo Handling Manual (ICHM).
• Inspect cargo for damage, irregularities, and compliance with safety standards.
• Implement correct stowage and securing methods to maintain cargo integrity.
• Evaluate warehouse layout and storage systems for efficiency and safety.
• Use best practices to minimize risks of cargo damage and operational delays.

3. Aviation Safety, Security and Dangerous Goods Awareness

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

• Identify categories of dangerous goods and restricted items in line with ICAO/IATA regulations.
• Apply correct labeling, packaging, and documentation procedures for dangerous goods.
• Demonstrate awareness of aviation security protocols, including screening and access control.
• Explain the impact of non‑compliance on safety, security, and legal liability.
• Apply risk management principles to prevent incidents in cargo operations.
• Promote a safety and security culture within airport cargo environments.

4. Documentation and Customs Procedures

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

• Prepare and interpret key cargo documents such as Air Waybills, manifests, and consignment notes.
• Explain customs clearance processes for imports, exports, and transshipments.
• Apply international trade compliance standards, including WTO and WCO guidelines.
• Identify common errors in documentation and their impact on cargo movement.
• Demonstrate the ability to complete customs declarations accurately and efficiently.
• Evaluate the role of digitalization in modern customs and documentation systems.

5. Customer Service in Cargo Operations

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

• Demonstrate effective communication skills with shippers, freight forwarders, and regulatory authorities.
• Apply customer service principles to resolve complaints and claims in cargo operations.
• Evaluate customer expectations in the context of airport cargo logistics.
• Implement service quality standards to enhance customer satisfaction and retention.
• Use problem‑solving techniques to manage service disruptions and delays.
• Promote a customer‑centric culture within airport cargo operations.

6. ICT and Tracking Systems in Cargo

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

• Operate cargo management systems, barcoding, and RFID technologies for cargo tracking.
• Apply digital tools to monitor cargo movement in real time.
• Evaluate the role of ICT in enhancing transparency, efficiency, and security in cargo logistics.
• Demonstrate knowledge of emerging technologies such as blockchain and IoT in cargo tracking.
• Analyze data from ICT systems to improve decision‑making and operational performance.
• Ensure compliance with data security and confidentiality standards in cargo ICT systems.