Introduction
Airports are complex ecosystems that require seamless coordination between multiple stakeholders — from airlines, ground handling teams, and security agencies to air traffic control, customs, and passenger services. Efficient airport operations management is critical to ensuring safety, regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and exceptional passenger experience.
This intensive 5-day course by Kincaid Development Center equips participants with the knowledge and skills to manage airport operations effectively across landside, airside, and terminal functions. Participants will learn industry best practices in safety management, flight operations, ground handling, passenger flow management, emergency preparedness, and the integration of technology in airport operations. The training aligns with ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) standards and global best practices.
Participants who successfully complete the course will receive a Certificate of Participation.
Course Objectives
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Understand the structure and functions of airport operations.
- Manage airside and landside operations in compliance with ICAO standards.
- Oversee passenger and baggage handling processes.
- Coordinate with stakeholders for efficient flight turnaround.
- Implement safety, security, and emergency procedures.
- Apply modern technologies to enhance operational efficiency.
Duration
5 Days
Who Should Attend
- Airport Managers and Supervisors
- Operations Control Center (OCC) Staff
- Airline Station Managers
- Ground Handling and Ramp Services Managers
- Security and Safety Managers in Aviation
- Civil Aviation Authority Officials
- Facility and Terminal Managers
Course Outline
Day 1: Introduction to Airport Operations
- Overview of the aviation industry and airport role.
- Types of airports (international, domestic, cargo hubs).
- Key components of airport operations: airside, landside, terminal.
- Organisational structure of airport management.
- Regulatory frameworks (ICAO, IATA, national civil aviation regulations).
- Stakeholder roles: airlines, ground handlers, ATC, customs, immigration.
Day 2: Airside Operations Management
- Airside infrastructure: runways, taxiways, aprons.
- Aircraft stand allocation and turnaround coordination.
- Ramp safety procedures and equipment handling.
- Aircraft fueling, catering, and cleaning operations.
- Airfield lighting and markings.
- Wildlife hazard management.
- Coordination with Air Traffic Control for safe movement.
Day 3: Landside and Terminal Operations
- Passenger flow management: check-in, security screening, boarding.
- Baggage handling systems and lost luggage protocols.
- Immigration and customs coordination.
- Landside facilities: parking, public transport integration.
- Commercial operations: retail, food & beverage, advertising.
- Accessibility and passenger assistance services.
- Customer service excellence in airport operations.
Day 4: Safety, Security, and Emergency Management
- Safety Management Systems (SMS) in airport operations.
- Airport security procedures and threat management.
- Emergency planning: aircraft incidents, terminal evacuations.
- Firefighting and rescue operations at airports.
- Crisis communication and coordination.
- Compliance with ICAO Annex 14 (Aerodromes) and Annex 17 (Security).
Day 5: Technology, Sustainability, and Future Trends
- Airport Operational Control Centers (AOCC) and integrated systems.
- Use of AI, IoT, and biometrics in airport operations.
- Airport sustainability initiatives (green airports).
- Capacity planning and infrastructure expansion.
- Performance monitoring and KPI management.
- Group project: Develop an operational improvement plan for a sample airport.
- Course review, feedback, and certification.
General Notes
- The instructor led trainings are delivered using a blended learning approach and comprises of presentations, guided sessions of practical exercise, web-based tutorials and group work. Our facilitators are seasoned industry experts with years of experience, working as professional and trainers in these fields.
- The participants should be reasonably proficient in English as all facilitation and course materials will be offered in English.
- Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with a certificate.
- The training will be held at Kincaid Training Centre. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments and lunch.
- All participants will additionally cater for their, travel expenses, visa application, insurance, and other personal expenses.
- Accommodation and airport pickup are arranged upon request. For reservations contact the Training coordinator at Email: training@kincaiddevelopmentcenter.org or Tel: +254 724592901
- This training can also be customized to suit the needs of your institution upon request. You can have it delivered in our Kincaid Training Centre or at a convenient location.
For further inquiries, please contact us on Tel: +254 724592901 or send mail to training@kincaiddevelopmentcenter.org.
Payments are due upon registration. Payment should be sent to our Bank account before commencement of training and proof of payment sent to training@kincaiddevelopmentcenter.org.

