17.0% of all baggage handlers are women, while 83.0% are men. The average baggage handler age is 48 years old.
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A baggage handler has to squat, bend and perform other physical duties to excel at this job. The role involves a great deal of heavy lifting, as baggage handlers are required to lift baggage into and out of the aircraft during the loading and unloading process.
What makes baggage handler a dirty job? Baggage handlers load and unload suitcases, luggage and other cargo -- all of which carry endless amounts of germs, dirt, dust and other substances.
Once inside, staff who range from baggage handlers to mechanics to cleaning crews are subject to either no security screening at all or to random spot checks at best. Only passengers, pilots and flight attendants are required by federal law to pass through airport metal detectors.
Airlines are responsible for either moving the baggage themselves, or hiring the ground handling company of their choice to move the baggage. Many times those who are responsible for this job are also in charge of parking the plane among other responsibilities, delaying baggage delivery time.
Baggage handlers get a retirement plan, and dental, life, and accident insurance. To sweeten the deal, like most airline employees, baggage handlers get to fly for free on any flight (source). And they get an average of two weeks paid vacation time to take advantage of those free flights.
Industry. Within the airline industry, a baggage handler is often referred to as a rampie or ramper: one who handles cargo on the ramp (the Aircraft Operations Area or AOA; outside the airline industry, the ramp is frequently referred to as the tarmac, a term popularized by the media).
How much do you tip for baggage? Senning recommends $1 or $2 per bag for curbside baggage handlers and offsite airport shuttle drivers who help load and unload luggage.
Baggage can include suitcases, duffel bags, trunks, packages, boxes, or animal crates, etc. If you are a baggage handler, you can be employed by specific airlines or private staffing companies. This job requires that you are able to complete heavy manual labor in a time-sensitive environment.
Firearms, ammunition, and fireworks are prohibited, as are all knives and safety razors (including pocket knives and Swiss Army knives). Straight razors and replacement blades for straight razors are also not allowed. Most tools also cannot be packed in carry-on luggage, as they have the potential to cause harm.