Marshalling / Ground Ops @ Belfast International
 

Latest news from BIA is that the marshalling and airbridge operation (currently carried out by the airport authority) is to be handed over to the (2 remaining) handling agents - Servisair & Reed Aviation.

This will result in redundancies in the Ground Ops Dept.

Uncle Albert attempted this same move some 14 months ago, but was prevented by the fact that Servisair weren't willing to pay their staff any extra to carry out these extra duties.

Should prove interesting to see underpaid, undertrained baggage handlers undertaking all these duties. (particularily the night-time marshalling on the freight apron)

This should be another interesting development in the airport's rather colourfull recent history.

Good luck to the BIA lads (and lasses) involved <img src="frown.gif" border="0">

At LBA, Marshalling and Airbridge operation are retained by the Airport Authority.....for a very good reason. Without meaning to insult any group of individuals, the turnover of handling agent staff can be quite frightening and the consequent level of airfield experience can be fairly low. I would much prefer to know and trust the staff who are performing this vital role.