Air transport operatives Pay Data UK — 2024

Air transport operatives roles in the UK earn a median of £28,255 per year, equivalent to £14.19 per hour as of 2024. This represents a 5.9% increase in annual pay compared to the previous year. Pay varies across the UK, ranging from £21,928 to £46,862 per year.

How Pay Varies Across the UK

Each bar shows how many areas of the UK have a median annual pay in that range for Air transport operatives roles. The dashed line marks the national median.

Based on sub-regional area data. Want a precise figure for your area?

About Air transport operatives

Air transport operatives refuel, load and unload aircraft, direct the movement of aircraft at airports, and positions gangways or staircases to allow passengers to board and disembark aircraft.

Typical Tasks and Duties

• refuels aircraft from mobile tankers
• directs the ground movement of aircraft at airports
• responds to emergencies or incidents on the airfield and completes runway inspections
• loads and unloads conveyor belts to transport luggage between terminal buildings and aircraft, monitors conveyor belts and clears any blockages
• loads aircraft with luggage, in-flight meals, refreshments and other items
• operates retractable gangway or positions mobile staircases to enable passengers and crew to board and disembark aircraft
• x-rays cargo and luggage

Entry Routes and Qualifications

There are no formal academic entry requirements, though employers may require entrants to possess GCSEs/S grades for some posts. Training is provided Off and on-the-job. Vocational qualifications in Aviation Operations on the Ground at level 2 and 3 and apprenticeships are available.

Related Occupations

Salary data is sourced from official UK pay datasets and updated periodically.