Aircraft Loader Kaiuta/Kaihoroi Waka Rererangi

Physical Requirements

Aircraft loaders need to be reasonably fit and strong, with strong backs and good stamina, because they need to lift heavy items. They also need to be able to bend, stoop and work in tight spaces.

Useful Experience

Useful experience for aircraft loaders includes:

• work at an airport
• work with heavy machinery and vehicles
• labouring
• warehouse work
• work in a team
• any work involving heavy lifting.

Personal Qualities

Aircraft loaders need to be:

• quick-thinking and able to make good judgements
• able to work well under pressure
• accurate, methodical and patient in their work
• able to work well independently and in a team
• safety-conscious
• good communicators.

Skills

Aircraft loaders need to have:

• knowledge of baggage and freight handling, as well as stacking and lifting techniques
• knowledge of how to handle hazardous goods
• an understanding of airport regulations and procedures, and safety and emergency procedures
• driving skills for operating specialist vehicles such as aircraft tugs.

Conditions

Aircraft loaders:

• usually work shifts, including weekends or evenings, and may work casually, part-time or full-time
• spend most of their time outside on the tarmac, in aircraft cabins and baggage holds, and baggage sorting rooms
• work in most types of weather, and in conditions that may be fumy and noisy.