Guidance for IGOM Gap Analysis
IATA Ground Operations
Edition 1
Monday, 15 April 2024
Guidance for IGOM Gap Analysis
pg. 1
1 Global IGOM adoption
1.1 Scope
This guidance has been developed to assist Airlines and Ground Handling Service Providers (GHSPs) with
the adoption of the IGOM. It provides an explanation on the adoption process, IGOM gap analysis, and
available tools. The focus is the process of assessment of the internal documentation against the IGOM.
1.2 Introduction
Global standards are the foundation for safe and efficient ground operations, driving further standardization
in ground personnel training, ensuring the same high level of skills and knowledge is provided to all, reducing
training time and costs, and ultimately driving the global adoption of industry best practices.
The IATA Ground Operations Manual (IGOM) is one such standard, updated annually, and containing the
globally recognized ground handling best practices used by airlines, GHSPs, and airports. IGOM is also
referenced by ICAO in doc 10121 “Manual for Ground Handling” and EASA in its basic regulation for ground
handling as industry standards for ground operations.
Once the IGOM is adopted and followed, companies should not have any difficulties to comply with the
regulatory requirements.
1.3 Adoption process
A company that decides to adopt IGOM within their ground operations processes, needs to perform a gap
analysis by comparing their own ground operations manual (GOM) or other type of standard operating
procedure (SOP) and documents (further referred as user manual), with IGOM.
It has been recognized that certain organizations need to deviate from IGOM requirements in order to support
specific company needs, policies and operational requirements, while mitigating safety risks. The IGOM
adoption policy as introduced in IGOM, allows for a company to have variations from the IGOM procedures –
see Section 4 Variations.
1.4 Operational portal
To accommodate the adoption process and to obtain data about IGOM global adoption and level of variation,
the IATA operational portal (further referred as the OPS portal) was introduced.
The OPS portal brings the following benefits to airlines and GHSPs:
a) Benchmarking: A comparison function enables a digital gap analysis between the IGOM
requirements and the manuals used by airlines and GHSPs.
b) Simplified verifiable communications: A traceable notification and acknowledgment function
facilitates communications between airlines and GHSPs on IGOM variations.
c) Latest information: Updates to the IGOM are immediately published on the portal.
d) Network overview: Local variations at all stations can be viewed for a network overview of IGOM
adoption.
See IGOM Portal – User Guide
Guidance for IGOM Gap Analysis
pg. 2
1.5 Performing the gap analysis in the OPS portal
The easiest way to perform the gap analysis is to use the OPS portal. As a summary, the following steps are
required:
a) Assess the level of compliance with IGOM and determine if the company’s procedures are either:
o in conformity, if the user manual is fully aligned with IGOM – see Section 2
o out of scope, if the procedure(s) are not covered by the IGOM – see Section 3
o variation, if the user manual has any gaps or differs in some way from IGOM – see Section 4
b) For each IGOM procedure assessed as a conformity, record a document reference of the equivalent
procedure as documented in the user manual.
c) If an IGOM requirement is covered in different parts or in different user manuals, provide all
documentary references.
d) Companies adopting IGOM “as is”, and using it as their own GOM, do not need to provide document
references.
e) For each IGOM procedure assessed as a variation, evaluate if it should be aligned with IGOM or
maintained as a variation.
f) For each IGOM safety critical procedure assessed as a variation, perform and document a risk
assessment, which will be maintained, ensuring the same level of safety is provided.
g) For each IGOM procedure assessed as a variation, provide a detailed description of the variation.
h) Publish the gap analysis.
i) Update the gap analysis for each new IGOM edition.
The IGOM Portal – User Guide is available to assist you with the technical aspects of using the OPS portal.
1.6 IGOM and user manuals in various languages
While IGOM is published in English, French and Spanish, the company’s procedures can be in different
languages. When aligning the company’s procedures with IGOM, it is important to ensure that company’s
procedures have the same meaning as IGOM when it is translated.
The OPS portal also includes IGOM requirements in English, Spanish and French. The user will see section,
sub-section and provision titles in the selected language. The gap analysis itself is available only in English,
meaning the gap analysis navigations, drop-down menus etc. are in English.
When conducting the gap analysis in the OPS portal, companies shall provide any required entries in English
as the portal is a tool to exchange information between airlines and GHSPs, as well as being used to track
industry adoption status and variation levels.
Guidance for IGOM Gap Analysis
pg. 3
2 Conformity
2.1 Definition
Conformity means a company is in alignment with the IGOM procedures and does not vary from the IGOM
requirement.
2.2 Conformity scenarios
2.2.1 The wording in the user manual is identical to the IGOM wording. Identical wording
means the user has adopted the IGOM content “as is”, including the IGOM
numbering.
Example – Conformity – Identical to IGOM Procedure
IGOM procedures
User procedures
4.1.1 Actions Prior to Aircraft Arrival
(a) Ensure all persons involved with the aircraft
arrival and post-arrival handling/servicing are
briefed on
safety and operational requirements relevant to
their functions, e.g., aircraft defects that may affect
ground handling operations, specific unloading,
equipment positioning and operating
requirements.
(b) Conduct a foreign object debris (FOD) check of
the entire stand, removing all debris just prior to
aircraft arrival.
(c) Make sure the stand surface condition is
sufficiently free of ice, snow, etc. to ensure safe
aircraft movement.
4.1.1 Actions Prior to Aircraft Arrival
(a) Ensure all persons involved with the aircraft
arrival and post-arrival handling/servicing are
briefed on
safety and operational requirements relevant to their
functions, e.g., aircraft defects that may affect
ground handling operations, specific unloading,
equipment positioning and operating requirements.
(b) Conduct a foreign object debris (FOD) check of
the entire stand, removing all debris just prior to
aircraft arrival.
(c) Make sure the stand surface condition is
sufficiently free of ice, snow, etc. to ensure safe
aircraft movement.
Explanation - The user manual procedure is in
conformity with IGOM. The procedures are identical
to the IGOM procedures in their entirety.
Guidance for IGOM Gap Analysis
pg. 4
2.2.2 The wording of the user manual is identical, but with a different layout or numbering
or structure.
Example – Conformity – Identical to IGOM Procedure
IGOM procedures
User procedures
4.1.1 Actions Prior to Aircraft Arrival
(a) Ensure all persons involved with the aircraft
arrival and post-arrival handling/servicing are
briefed on safety and operational requirements
relevant to their functions, e.g., aircraft defects that
may affect ground handling operations, specific
unloading, equipment positioning and operating
requirements.
(b) Conduct a foreign object debris (FOD) check of
the entire stand, removing all debris just prior to
aircraft arrival.
(c) Make sure the stand surface condition is
sufficiently free of ice, snow, etc. to ensure safe
aircraft movement.
12.4.2 Actions Prior to Aircraft Arrival
Ensure all persons involved with the aircraft arrival
and post-arrival handling/servicing are briefed on
safety and operational requirements relevant to
their functions, e.g., aircraft defects that may affect
ground handling operations, specific unloading,
equipment positioning and operating requirements.
Conduct a foreign object debris (FOD) check of the
entire stand, removing all debris just prior to aircraft
arrival. Make sure the stand surface condition is
sufficiently free of ice, snow, etc. to ensure safe
aircraft movement.
Explanation - The user manual procedure is in
conformity with IGOM. The procedures are identical
to IGOM procedures in its entirety, but the
structure/format is not same as IGOM.
Guidance for IGOM Gap Analysis
pg. 5
2.2.3 The wording in the user manual is not identical to the IGOM wording, the overall
meaning of the user procedure is similar to the IGOM. It includes all relevant IGOM
requirements, and all the steps are followed in required order.
Example 1 – Conformity – Different wording but all relevant IGOM requirements are met
IGOM procedures
User procedures
4.1.1 Actions Prior to Aircraft Arrival
(a) Ensure all persons involved with the aircraft arrival
and post-arrival handling/servicing are briefed on
safety and operational requirements relevant to their
functions, e.g., aircraft defects that may affect ground
handling operations, specific unloading, equipment
positioning and operating requirements.
(b) Conduct a foreign object debris (FOD) check of the
entire stand, removing all debris just prior to aircraft
arrival.
(c) Make sure the stand surface condition is
sufficiently free of ice, snow, etc. to ensure safe
aircraft movement.
(d) Make sure all required ground support equipment
(GSE), chocks and safety cones are available and
serviceable, and are positioned well clear of the
aircraft path, outside the equipment restraint area
(ERA).
(e) Make sure the aircraft guidance docking system is
activated, where applicable, or a marshaller is in
position. Where an aircraft docking guidance system is
in use, ensure it is operative and only activated when it
is confirmed that conditions are safe to accept the
aircraft.
See 4.1.2(b)
for Wing Walker positioning for Aircraft
Arrival.
(f) Make sure required ground personnel are present
including any additional personnel (i.e., wing walker), if
applicable.
See 4.1.2 (b)
for wing walker positioning
during aircraft arrival.
5.0 Aircraft Turn-round
5.1-Pre-Arrival
The team leader must:
3 As the VDGS is not available at the airport, always ensure
to coordinate with the airport for the marshaller and the
requirements of wing walkers’ prior to arrival, if required.
4
5 Perform briefing with all personnel involved with the
handling based on the roster and advise on all issues
expected for the messages received for the incoming
aircraft.
6 Conduct a check to ensure all required GSEs along with
chocks and safety cones are stagged in the correct
location and there is no impediment of FOD or any
condition that may affect the handling.
7 Be aware of weather impediments e.g., heavy rain and
strong winds at the station.
8 No unserviceable equipment or GSE should be staged at
the equipment area or in the equipment restraint area.
Explanation - The user manual procedure is in conformity
with the IGOM. All IGOM specifications are met despite:
1. Different format e.g., title, numbering
2. Different wording but same meaning and all key
elements captured.
3. The user manual defines the procedure for
marshalling person but does not cover the docking
system. If the airport does not provide a docking
system, the user can adjust the procedure to their
operations. This is a conformity as IGOM 4.1.1 (e)
procedure includes the words “where applicable”
which means the User can use either procedure or
both, depending on the type of their operations.
Guidance for IGOM Gap Analysis
pg. 6
Example 2 - Conformity- Different wording but all relevant IGOM requirements are met
IGOM procedures
User procedure
4.4.2 Cabin Access Doors
4.4.2.1 General
(a) There may be differences between Airlines regarding
responsibility for operating cabin access doors. The
operating Airline determines whether ground personnel
or cabin crew are authorized to operate cabin access
doors. All ground personnel shall follow procedures as set
by the operating Airline's GOM
4.4.2 Cabin Access Doors
4.4.2.1 General
Cabin access doors, i.e., passenger entrance and service
doors, shall be opened:
a) By flight crew only, when on board.
b) By trained and authorized ground staff, if no flight crew
is on board.
Before opening the cabin door, all staff not involved must
retreat to a safe position.
Explanation – The IGOM defines that the Airline can
determine, who will be authorized to operate the cabin
access doors and the user manual also defines the same
requirement with different wording that meets the IGOM
requirement. Based on the Airline requirements, the user
manual may be more specific, as to which role or function
is authorized to perform this function. This is not a
variation, it is conformity.
The user in this case is an airline
Out of scope
2.3 Definition
“Out of scope” means a user does not perform, provide, offer an operation/service/function within the IGOM
scope of documented procedures. It might be due to a user business decision, unavailability of equipment,
systems, technology or other reasons such as regulatory requirements and permissions, airport requirement s
and/or infrastructure issues.
User to provide comments in the “comment” field about the out of scope function to ensure it clearly reflects
that the function or service is not performed or not needed.
Guidance for IGOM Gap Analysis
pg. 7
2.4 Out of scope scenarios
2.4.1 Chapter level: If a user does not perform an entire operation, the entire relevant
IGOM chapter will be marked “out of scope”.
Example 1 – Chapter level
IGOM procedures
User procedure
Chapter 1 Passenger Handling Procedures
Chapter 2 Baggage Handling Procedures
Chapter 3 Aircraft General Safety and Servicing
Operations
Chapter 4 Aircraft Turnaround
Chapter 5 Load Control
The User is a Cargo Airline performing freighter
operations only
Explanation: The Airline does not transport passengers
and baggage, therefore the entire IGOM Chapter 1.
Passenger Handling Procedures and Chapter 2.
Baggage Handling Procedures will be marked out of
scope
Example 2 – Chapter level
IGOM procedures
User procedure
IGOM Chapter .1 Passenger Handling Procedures
IGOM Chapter 2 Baggage Handling Procedures
IGOM Chapter 3 Aircraft General Safety and Servicing
Operations
IGOM Chapter 4 Aircraft Turnaround
IGOM Chapter 5 Load Control
9 The User is a GHSP offering the load control function only
Explanation: The GHSP only performs the load control
function, so only IGOM Chapter 5 Load Control is
applicable. The IGOM Chapters
• Passenger Handling Procedures
• Baggage Handling Procedures
• Aircraft General Safety and Servicing
Operations,
• Aircraft Turnaround
will be marked out of scope
2.4.2 Section level: if a user does not perform a certain activity corresponding to an entire
section within a chapter, the relevant IGOM section will be marked “out of scope”.
Example 1 – Section level
IGOM procedure
User procedure
IGOM Chapter 3 Aircraft General Safety and Servicing
Operations
3.1 Ramp Safety in Aircraft Handling
3.2 Safety During Fueling and Defueling ..
3.3 Adverse Weather Conditions
3.4 Hand Signals
3.5 Toilet Servicing
3.6 Potable Water Servicing
3.7 Aircraft Cleaning and Disinfection
3.8 Safety During Aircraft De-icing/Anti-icing Operations
10 GHSP provides ramp handling services but does not
perform the function of aircraft cleaning and disinfection.
Explanation: GHSP provides ramp services and thus
IGOM Chapter 3 Aircraft General Safety and Servicing
Operations is applicable, except for IGOM section
3.7Aircraft Cleaning and Disinfection, which will be
marked out of scope.
Guidance for IGOM Gap Analysis
pg. 8
Example 2 – Section level
User procedure
11 The passenger Airline only operates point to point in
different stations as a business model
Explanation: The passenger Airline handles both
passengers and their baggage; However, due to their
business model of “point to point” they do not handle
transfer baggage in their station of operation. IGOM
Chapter 1 Passenger Handling Procedures and Chapter
2 Baggage Handling Procedures are applicable except for
IGOM section 2.5 Baggage Transfer, which will be marked
out of scope at the applicable station(s).
Example 3 – Section level
User procedure
12 At the station of operation, the GHSP offers ramp handling
and performs aircraft turnround, the GHSP performs
pushback operation but does not;
a) perform long-term parking of aircraft functions.
b) the airport operator does not allow power back
operations
Explanation: Since the GHSP offers ramp handling, the
entire IGOM Chapter 3 Aircraft General Safety and
Servicing Operations and IGOM Chapter 4 Aircraft
Turnaround are applicable, except sections 4.8 Aircraft
Power back Operations, and 4.10 Long-Term Parking for
Aircraft
During the assessment sections 4.8, and 4.10 will be
marked out of scope
Guidance for IGOM Gap Analysis
pg. 9
2.4.3 Sub-section: when a user does not perform an activity or activities within a sub-
section this will be identified as “out of scope”
Example 1– Sub-section level
IGOM procedures
User procedure
4.5.3 Safety Requirements Specific to Aircraft Loading
and Unloading
4.5.3.1 Safety Requirements Specific to Aircraft Loading
and Unloading – General
4.5.3.2 Unit Load Device Loading and Unloading
4.5.3.3 Main Deck Loading of Freighter Aircraft
4.5.3.4 Bulk Loading and Unloading
4.5.3.5 Shipments Requiring Special Handling
13 The GHSP does not handle freighter aircraft or freighter
operations at the station.
Explanation:
Since the GHSP performs aircraft loading and unloading,
section 4.5.3 Safety Requirements Specific to Aircraft
Loading and Unloading is applicable to their operations
except sub-section 4.5.3.3 Main Deck Loading of
Freighter Aircraft
During the assessment sub-section 4.5.3.3 will be marked
out of scope
Example 2 – Sub-section level
IGOM procedure
User procedure
4.5.3 Safety Requirements Specific to Aircraft Loading
and Unloading
14 Airline operates narrow body aircraft with the bulk
loading compartments only
Guidance for IGOM Gap Analysis
pg. 10
4.5.3.1 Safety Requirements Specific to Aircraft Loading
and Unloading – General
4.5.3.2 Unit Load Device Loading and Unloading
4.5.3.3 Main Deck Loading of Freighter Aircraft
4.5.3.4 Bulk Loading and Unloading
4.5.3.5 Shipments Requiring Special Handling
Explanation:
Since the Airline fleet is narrow body, bulk loading only, for
ramp handling under IGOM 4.5.3 Safety Requirements
Specific to Aircraft Loading and Unloading the following
subsections are not applicable.
2.4.3.1 4.5.3.2 Unit load device
2.4.3.2 4.5.3.3 Main deck loading of freighter
aircraft,
During the assessment sub-sections 4.5.3.2 and 4.5.3.3
will be marked out of scope
Guidance for IGOM Gap Analysis
pg. 11
Example 3– Sub-section level
IGOM procedures
User procedure
3.1.3 Safety Instructions for Operating and Working
with Ground Support
Equipment on the Ramp
3.1.3.1 General Safety Instructions
3.1.3.2 Basic Operating Requirements for Ground
Support Equipment
3.1.3.3 Non-motorized Ground Support Equipment
3.1.3.4 Safely Driving and Parking Ground Support
Equipment Inside the Equipment Restraint Area
3.1.3.5 Passenger Boarding Bridge
3.1.3.6 Passenger Stairs
3.1.3.7 Belt Loader
3.1.3.8 Unit Load Device Loader
3.1.3.9 Elevating Equipment
3.1.3.11 ULD Transporter
15 The airport of operation has no boarding bridges.
Therefore, the GHSP has not documented passenger
bridge operations even though they offer ramp handling
Explanation:
Since boarding bridge operation is not available at the
station, IGOM 3.1.3 Safety Instructions for Operating
and Working with Ground Support Equipment on the
Ramp, sub-section 3.1.3.5 Passenger Boarding Bridge
is out of scope
During the assessment sub-section 3.1.3.5 will be marked
out of scope
3 Variation
3.1 Definition
As defined in the IGOM introduction section, under 12.2 Adoption policy – variation means the company
procedure is not the same as the IGOM procedure. Company procedures can be less, or more restrictive, or
requirements can be different from the procedures described in the IGOM.
The user procedure can be adequate and safe, however in comparison with the IGOM, it may:
a) include additional processes and requirements beyond those stated in the IGOM.
b) include or cover less requirements than IGOM.
c) have different, alternative, and unique procedures, not addressed in IGOM.
d) Cover a combination of some or all scenarios above
As such, it is identified and assessed as a variation.
In the early stages of the IGOM development, there was an attempt to categorize variations further as either
more
or less restrictive
. It has since been recognized that such categorization is not straight-forward, e.g. more
requirements does not always mean that procedure is more restrictive and vice-versa. Such categorization
also may be subjective, and in the past, it created additional complexity to perform the gaps analysis. With the
IGOM gap analysis goal of benchmarking the industry standardization with the IGOM in mind, it has since been
decided to only use the term variation.
3.2 Applicability
In terms of the IGOM adoption policy, variations from the IGOM are allowed and can be driven by the different
local regulatory and airport authorities’ requirements or by the operational needs, available equipment, or
aircraft specifications.
IATA recommends that airlines and GHSPs be fully aligned with IGOM and to keep variations limited only to
those that are necessary from the regulatory, airport or operational restrictions point of view. IATA may
implement additional restrictions for the GHSPs’ variations for the ISAGO audit purposes and limit the reasons
for variations.
Guidance for IGOM Gap Analysis
pg. 12
3.3 Variations declaration
The declaration of variations is the first step towards industry standardization. It provides clarity as to where
the industry stands in terms of the global adoption of IGOM requirements as well as providing data on where
the industry varies from the IGOM. This data helps further IGOM development by indicating further areas for
review and alignment. It also provides any organization with a reflection point, to either validate the reason for
variation or to define a path for an alignment with the industry benchmark.
3.4 Variation scenarios
3.4.1 A company procedure is said to be a variation from IGOM when the user procedure
includes additional requirements
Example 1 – Variation (additional requirements)
IGOM procedures
User procedure
1.1.1.1. Safely Driving and Parking Ground Support
Equipment Inside the Equipment Restraint Area
To verify the serviceability of GSE and test the apron
surfaces, operators shall apply the following precautions
when driving or parking GSE within the ERA:
(a) Make one complete stop with all motorized GSE prior
to entering the ERA or at 5 m from the aircraft. This action
shall be carried out even if there is no equipment restraint
line marked on the apron.
2.1.1.1 Safe Operations of Ground Support
Equipment Inside the Equipment Restraint Area
To verify the serviceability of GSE and test the apron
surfaces, operators shall apply the following precautions
when driving or parking GSE within the ERA:
(a) Perform a complete stop brake check prior to entering
ERA and at 5m from the aircraft.
Explanation: The IGOM 3.1.3.4 requires performing one
complete stop with all motorized GSE prior to entering the
ERA or at 5 m from the aircraft whereas the User Manual
procedure requires performing a complete stop brake
check prior to entering ERA and at 5m from the aircraft.
Point under (a) is a variation because the user procedure
requires performing two brake checks, while the IGOM
requests only one of the listed checks.
The user section title itself is not considered as a
variation because the User Manual heading shows
different wording but the same meaning.
Example 2 – Variation (additional requirements)
IGOM procedures
User procedure
4.5.7.3 Securing of ULDs
(b) If there are empty loading positions, as a minimum, the
restraints of the empty position forward or aft of the ULD
shall be raised. Refer to the operator's GOM for guidance
on the specific aircraft type.
5.5 Securing of ULDs
Restraints on all NIL FIT positions shall be raised, not only
on adjacent ones, except for cargo holds that are
completely empty.
Explanation – The IGOM 4.5.7.3 defines a minimum
restraint requirement, while the User Manual includes
additional restraints above the minimum.
User procedure is a variation because the User
procedure requires more than the minimum required by
the IGOM
Guidance for IGOM Gap Analysis
pg. 13
Example 3 – Variation (additional requirements)
IGOM procedures
User procedure
4.6.4.2 Connecting Pushback Tractor and Towbar
Where required by aircraft type, remove the chocks from
the nose gear and reposition at the main gear (in
accordance with IGOM 4.2.2 Chock Placement Diagrams
option 2
Where required by aircraft type, first chock the
unchocked main gear before removing the nose gear
chocks.
Explanation – The IGOM 4.6.4.2 defines the removal of
nose gear chock and reposition, while the User Manual
requires chocks to be placed at the main gear before
removal from the nose gear. This will lead to using more
chocks than required by IGOM.
Procedure is a variation because the User procedure
follows different process sequence and requires
placement of additional chocks on the main gear before
removal of the nose gear chocks.
3.4.2 The user procedure includes less requirements than IGOM
Example – Variation (less requirements)
IGOM procedures
User procedure
4.6.4.2 Connecting Pushback Tractor and Towbar
Where required by aircraft type, remove the chocks from
the nose gear and reposition at the main gear (in
accordance with IGOM 4.2.2 Chock Placement Diagrams
option 2
4.6.4.2 Connecting Pushback Tractor and Towbar
Where required by aircraft type, remove the chocks from
the nose gear. Chocks should be repositioned at the main
gear in accordance with the IGOM 4.2.2 diagram.
Explanation – The IGOM 4.6.4.2 states the removal of
the nose gear chock and reposition, while the User
Manual has a “should” requirement.
Procedure can be assessed as a variation because it
means that the operational personnel are not required to
place the chocks at the main gear after removing from
the nose gear, which is a lesser requirement than IGOM.
The procedure can also be assessed as a conformity if
the User Manual document defined that “should” and
“shall” are equivalent terms in their procedures and it
means “mandatory”. As such the above example would
not be a variation, and the User is in conformity with the
IGOM.
Guidance for IGOM Gap Analysis
pg. 14
Example 2– Variation (less requirements)
IGOM procedures
User procedure
3.1.3.6 Passenger Stairs
e) Move the passenger stairs slowly toward the aircraft,
avoiding any aircraft sensors or protrusions, and either:
1. Where the passenger stairs are equipped with a self-
levelling device, continue movement until the protective
bumpers just touch the aircraft, or the passenger stair
proximity sensors stop the movement.
2. When not equipped with a self-levelling device,
maintain a gap in accordance with No-Touch policy. Refer
to IGOM 3.1.3.2 (s)
3.1.3.6 Passenger Stairs
Move the passenger stairs slowly toward the aircraft,
avoiding any aircraft sensors or protrusions, continue
movement until the protective bumpers just touch the
aircraft, or the passenger stair proximity sensors stop the
movement.
Explanation – The IGOM 3.1.3.6 defines the positioning of
passenger stairs to aircraft with or without self-levelling,
while the User Manual has a general procedure with
guidance on “No-Touch” policy especially when stair is not
equipped with self-levelling device.
As the User Manual procedure has not defined whether
the GSE has a self-levelling device or not, we can assume
here that they are using stairs without a self-levelling
device. Based on this assumption and also that the no-
touch policy has not been outlined in the procedure, the
procedure can be assessed as variation. This is because
there are less requirements than the IGOM.
But if the user’s equipment is fitted with a self-levelling
device and the document, as it stands, is used in the
procedure, this will be conformity.
3.5 What is not a variation
The following are examples of some conditions where the User procedure is not a variation:
a) If the user procedure and IGOM procedures have the same overall meaning but have different wording,
this is not a variation, it is conformity.
b) If IGOM procedures are in a list format, (such as: a, b, c, d), but user manual has defined the same
procedure in paragraph format or with a different structure, but the overall meaning is the same, this is
not a variation, it is conformity.
c) If the user does not perform any particular operation or function or service - this is not a variation, it is out
of scope.
For example:
o GHSP performs aircraft loading and unloading, but does not handle freighter operations, then they
shall mark sub-section 4.5.3.3 Main Deck Loading of Freighter Aircraft under Section 4.5.3
Safety Requirements Specific to Aircraft Loading and Unloading, as out of scope. This is not a
variation.
o The airline only operates narrow body aircraft with bulk loading ONLY. The sub-section 4.5.3.2
Unit load device and 4.5.3.3 Main deck loading of freighter aircraft, under Section 4.5.3 Safety
Requirements Specific to Aircraft Loading and Unloading, will be out of scope. This is not a
variation.
o Airport does not have boarding bridge options. In this case sub-section 3.1.3.5 Passenger
Boarding Bridge is out of scope for GHSP and Airline. This is not a variation.
d) If an Airline/GHSP uses IGOM checklists, e.g., IGOM 3.7.4.2 Flight Deck and changes the title to read
as “Cockpit Cleaning” or uses different section headings/titles. This is not a variation, so long as the
content is the same, or the content meaning is the same, in which case it is a conformity.
Guidance for IGOM Gap Analysis
pg. 15
e) If the user has procedures defined in more than one operational manual and document, for example,
in SOPs/work instructions. This is not a variation so long as all the document references are provided,
and the procedures are aligned with IGOM.
f) If the User Manual has additional procedures which are out of scope for the IGOM, for example, the
User Manual has defined the procedure 3.1.3.12 Forklift whereas IGOM does not have this procedure.
This is neither a conformity, nor a variation, nor out of scope. This will therefore not be analyzed under
the gap analysis option.
Note: Please refer to Conformity and Out of scope sections above for explanation and examples.
3.6 Recording of variation in the OPS portal
Recording of variations from IGOM are important and beneficial to the individual companies. Airlines can
communicate all variations to their GHSPs, with the aim to better manage and measure their performance, and
GHSPs have better visibility on where their customer Airlines adopt IGOM and where they vary and how. GHSPs
are also able better understand local differences compared to other stations where they provide services.
If a company procedure is assessed as a variation, the company shall:
a) Select variation mapping for the relevant IGOM procedure.
b) Provide document reference “user provision” to the relevant user procedure.
c) Provide “variation description” – see section 4.6.1 below.
Optionally, the user can attach:
a) A .pdf image of only the specific procedure(s) which vary (not entire manual or procedure).
b) The risk assessment for the safety critical procedures – see Section 4.7.
See – IGOM Portal user guide
3.6.1 Variation description
The variation description is a mandatory field for each variation and companies are required to provide the
following information:
a) Describe how / why the company procedure varies from the IGOM.
b) Include text of the varying part. (Not a copy of the entire process or procedure).,
Or,
c) Attach a document and/or image of the specific procedure or provision which varies to the IGOM (not
the entire process or manual).
d) Provide document references where the risk assessments for the safety critical procedures are
documented.
Note: All information that is provided is transferred to the variation report which includes all the procedure
references assessed as variations, along with the variation descriptions.
Example:
IGOM 3.1.3.4 Safely driving and parking ground support equipment inside the ERA.
Variation description: Our procedure requires a complete stop brake check, both prior to entering ERA and
again at 5m from the aircraft. Due to past incidents our procedure is more restrictive. Risk Matrix 2024, item 6
3.6.2 Comment
Providing any comments in the comment field is optional. It serves as a place to put internal notes, but these
comments will not be transferred to the variation report.
Examples: IGOM 3.1.3.4 Safely Driving and parking Ground Support Equipment Inside the ERA
Guidance for IGOM Gap Analysis
pg. 16
Comments: The RA has been performed; it remains a variation due to previous incidents
3.7 Variations from IGOM safety critical procedures
3.7.1 Safety critical procedures
All IGOM procedures are risk assessed based on the severity of the risk. Safety critical procedures are
identified in the IGOM according to the risk rating of the procedures. For further guidance see IGOM
Introduction, Section 4.3 IGOM risk assessment.
IGOM identifies safety critical procedures with the pointing finger symbol which appears in the document
margin next to the procedure. The example below identifies this symbol in the blue circle:
3.7.2 Performing the risk assessment
When a variation from an IGOM safety critical procedure is identified, and if the user opts to maintain the
variation, a risk assessment shall be performed and accepted by the Airline/GHSP as per its own Safety
Management System (SMS) specifications.
For further guidance, see IGOM Introduction, Section12.2 Adoption Policy. The risk assessment shall be
documented as per the company’s SMS processes.
3.8 Recording the variations from the safety critical procedures in the OPS
portal
If the assessment is selected as variation in the OPS portal:
a) the IGOM safety critical procedures will automatically highlight as RED color.
b) non-safety critical procedures will automatically highlight as AMBER color.
Guidance for IGOM Gap Analysis
pg. 17
See the below example and screenshot showing both Red and Amber:
Example – Red and Amber Variation
RED (Safety Critical Procedure)
AMBER (Non-Safety Critical)
4.2.1 Wheel Chock Placement
In 4.2.1, if the user procedure varies from the IGOM,
then the variation assessment will be automatically
shown in RED color.
4.1.1 Actions Prior to Aircraft Arrival
In 4.1.1, if user procedure varies from the IGOM,
then variation assessment will be automatically
shown in AMBER color.
4 Multiple assessments
4.1 Definition
Multiple assessments mean that the IGOM sub-section can have more than one assessment so that part of
the IGOM sub-section can be assessed as out of scope or a variation, while other IGOM requirements within
the same sub-section are in conformity. However, the overall mapping for that sub-section is determined by
the hierarchy of precedence: variations take precedence over conformity and then out of scope follows.
Guidance for IGOM Gap Analysis
pg. 18
4.2 Multiple Assessment Scenarios
4.2.1 Combination of variation and conformity in a sub-section
Example – Variation and Conformity
IGOM procedures
User procedures
4.1.1 Actions Prior to Aircraft Arrival
(a) Ensure all persons involved with the aircraft arrival
and post-arrival handling/servicing are briefed on
safety and operational requirements relevant to their
functions, e.g., aircraft defects that may affect
ground handling operations, specific unloading,
equipment positioning and operating requirements.
(b) Conduct a foreign object debris (FOD) check of the
entire stand, removing all debris just prior to aircraft
arrival.
(c) Make sure the stand surface condition is sufficiently
free of ice, snow, etc. to ensure safe aircraft movement.
4.1.1 Actions Prior to Aircraft Arrival
(a) Ensure all persons involved with the aircraft arrival and
post-arrival handling/servicing are briefed on
safety and operational requirements relevant to their
functions, e.g., aircraft defects that may affect
ground handling operations, specific unloading, equipment
positioning and operating requirements.
(b) Conduct a foreign object debris (FOD) check after
aircraft departure.
(c) Make sure the stand surface condition is sufficiently
free of ice, snow, etc. to ensure safe aircraft movement.
Explanation - The user manual procedure has points (a)
and (c) as conformity but point (b) as a variation. For point
(b) IGOM requires to perform FOD check prior to aircraft
arrival whereas the user manual states that the FOD check
is to be done after aircraft departure, hence this is a
variation.
In this situation where the user has a combination of
conformity and variation the overall assessment in the
OPS portal will be marked as variation along with a
description.
4.2.2 Combination of a conformity and out of scope in a sub-section
Example – Conformity and Out of Scope
IGOM procedures
User procedures
4.5.3.5 Shipments Requiring Special Handling
a) General
b) Dangerous Goods
c) Live Animals
d) Wet Cargo
e) Perishable and temperature sensitive health
Care Products
f) Dry Ice
4.5.3.5 Shipments Requiring Special Handling
a) General
b) Wet Cargo
c) Perishable and temperature sensitive health Care
Products
d) Dry Ice
Explanation - The user manual procedure has points (a), ,
(d), (e) (f) in conformity but points (b), (c) are out of scope.
For points (b) and (c) the user does not handle DG and live
animals, hence it is out of scope.
In this situation where the user has a combination of
“conformity” and “out of scope” the overall assessment in
the OPS Portal will be marked as conformity.
Guidance for IGOM Gap Analysis
pg. 19
4.2.3 Combination of conformity, variation and out of scope in a sub-section
Example – Conformity, Variation and Out of Scope
IGOM procedures
User procedures
4.5.3.5 Shipments Requiring Special Handling
a) General
b) Dangerous Goods
c) Live Animals
d) Wet Cargo
e) Perishable and temperature sensitive health Care
Products
f) Dry Ice
4.5.3.5 Shipments Requiring Special Handling
(a) General
(b) Dangerous Goods
(c) Live Animals
(d) Wet Cargo
(e) Perishable and temperature sensitive health Care
Products
(f) Dry Ice
Explanation - The user manual procedure has points (a),
(b), (d), (f) in conformity but point (e) is out of scope as they
do not handle this product. Point (c) is a variation as the
user has not documented a handling procedure for live
animal to ensure they are segregated during loading in the
aircraft especially when loaded together with DG, food
items and dry ice.
In this situation where the user has a combination of
conformity, variation and out of scope the overall
assessment in the OPS portal will be marked as variation.
If a company procedure has multiple assessments i.e., out of scope, conformity and/or variation in the same
provisions of the IGOM procedures, all assessments need to be recorded.
END