The Standard Ground Handling Agreement (SGHA) is an internationally recognized agreement developed by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The SGHA was first introduced in 1995 and has since then undergone revisions in 1998, 2004, and the most recent update was in January 2013. The main objective of this agreement is to provide a standard set of terms and conditions for ground handling services to be provided to airlines.
The SGHA of January 2013 consists of two main parts: the SGHA form and the Annex A. The SGHA form is a standardized document that outlines the general terms and conditions of the agreement. The Annex A contains detailed provisions for specific types of ground handling services such as passenger and baggage handling, cargo handling, and aircraft handling.
One of the significant changes in the 2013 SGHA is the inclusion of the “audit requirement” clause. This means that ground handlers are required to undergo regular audits by the airline or a third-party auditing firm to ensure that they meet the standards set forth in the agreement. This clause is crucial in maintaining the safety and security of both the airline and passengers.
Another important aspect of the 2013 SGHA is the introduction of the “fair competition” clause. This clause ensures that ground handlers compete on a fair and equal basis to provide their services to airlines. This helps to prevent monopolies in the ground handling industry and ensures that airlines have access to quality ground handling services at a reasonable price.
The SGHA also sets out the procedures and policies for dispute resolution between airlines and ground handlers. This helps to minimize conflicts and ensures that disputes are resolved in a fair and timely manner.
Overall, the SGHA of January 2013 is an essential document for the aviation industry. It provides a standard set of terms and conditions for ground handling services, which ensures that airlines have access to quality services. The inclusion of the audit requirement and fair competition clause ensures that ground handlers operate at the highest standards and on a fair and equal basis. The SGHA plays a vital role in maintaining the safety, security, and efficiency of the aviation industry.