Worked as a ramp agent for Aviance at LHR.......
- Noise pollution - you absolutely must wear ear plugs or guards - even if everyone else isn't (Tinitus etc...)
- Air Pollution - breath through your effing nose!!
- Hard work (Extra hard work during School Holidays)
- Crap Pay - but overtime usually available at good rates
- Knee pain - you must wear those knee pads!
-/+ You may be required or encouraged to join a Union (most BA, Aviance workers do) - this is not necessarily a bad thing!
I was lucky I was at LHR - no night shifts for me, just lates and earlies, but depending on which airfield you are working at there may be a requirement to work nights...
+ Great opportunity to speak to flight crew/cabin crew/Captains etc
+ some interaction with ATC (minimal, over the radio, eg on push back)
+ interaction with Dispatchers, Flight Planners, Ops guys etc
so if you have an aim to learn about the industry you can....big time
. Transport - most staff drive to the airport - but check public transport deals - they generally are cheaper
Plus the feel when you are in a buzzing place like LHR - wow!
Plus, a few of my colleagues were Plane Spotters - this was heaven for them
But I doubt I'd return. Not to put you off!
Baggage/Cargo/Mail handling - climbing into aircraft holds!
Scanning and loading baggage into large metal bins (ULDs)
Driving vehicles such as steps, baggage belts etc
There may be opportunities to learn to drive a tug (pushbacks)
BEWARE - on lates - if the lst flight is delayed a number of staff must remain on site - you could end up going home real late, no lie.
You do sound keen - so after 6-12 months I would advise you to go for a supervisor or lead agent position - get supervisory experience whilst you're there
There will be lots of safety training before you start - LISTEN TO IT AND LEARN!!
There are always opportunities if you can see them - and then take them
I hope this is useful!
Abdel