Logistic IATA data from 2025 globally shows there were almost 38,000 loading errors across ground operations and more than 29,000 aircraft damage events.
For the cargo sector, where load limits are stricter, unit weights heavier and documentation chains more complex than in passenger operations, the exposure to these incidents is significantly higher.
Despite these figures, the industry reported no fatal ground handling accidents and only one serious injury in 2025. With close to 40 million flights operated globally each year, IATA noted that this still reflects a high level of professionalism and operational discipline across the sector.
IATA Director of Ground Operations Monika Mejstrikova said the numbers should not be viewed in isolation, but as indicators of where improvement is still possible. She highlighted three priority areas: stronger implementation of global standards, modernisation of ground support equipment fleets, and accelerated digitalisation.
She stressed that safety improvements rarely come from a single major change, but from consistent progress across these fundamentals to further strengthen already solid performance levels.
Loading errors, she added, are not minor operational issues. They can directly affect aircraft weight and balance and, in turn, have implications for safety, regulatory compliance and operational efficiency.
One of the key challenges remaining is the fragmentation of data across ground operations. In the case of cargo, the problem is further exacerbated by the complexity of freighter operations and the diversity of unit load devices involved.
To address this, the industry is increasingly turning to digitalisation, including the X565 data standard, which aims to replace manual processes with standardised digital workflows for weight and balance management. IATA says operators using digital load control and reconciliation tools are already reporting reductions in loading errors of more than 90%, alongside fewer delays.
The standard is being progressively adopted by manufacturers, with Boeing implementing X565 across the 737 family, while Airbus has made significant progress across the A320, A330 and A350 programmes, including future cargo variants.
Mejstrikova also pointed to progress in winter operations, where digital systems such as the De-Icing Anti-Icing Quality Control Pool are improving visibility of operational risks and strengthening safety oversight through shared data and new industry dashboards.
Overall, IATA’s message is that whether it concerns baggage handling, aircraft loading, de-icing or safety reporting, the objective remains the same: improving visibility, reducing errors, and enabling faster, more informed decision-making through digital transformation.
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