GHA

A Ground Handling Agent (GHA) provides services at airports on behalf of airlines, particularly for air cargo operations. Cargo-side GHA services include accepting freight from forwarders, weighing and measuring shipments, building up ULDs (Unit Load Devices), screening for Dangerous Goods (DG) compliance, special handling for Valuable Cargo (VCHS), and loading/unloading aircraft.

A typical GHA serves multiple airlines under different contracts — each with its own rate card, SLA requirements, and operational standards. Workflows must support per-airline rate billing, AWB-level tracking, ULD pool management, and integration with airline cargo reservation systems.

Specialised GHA workflows include the Valuable Cargo Handling System (VCHS) for high-value shipments like precious metals, currency, and jewellery; cold-chain handling for pharma; and perishable handling for fresh produce.