The Certified Air Cargo & Ground Operations Professional/Manager (CACGOP)™/(CACGOM)™ certification program is a prestigious and globally applicable qualification designed for professionals responsible for the safe, efficient, and compliant handling of air cargo and ground operations. In the fast-moving aviation and logistics industry, seamless coordination between airside and landside activities is critical to ensuring on-time performance, cargo integrity, and customer satisfaction. This program equips participants with advanced knowledge in cargo handling, load control, ramp operations, aircraft servicing, regulatory compliance, and the integration of technology for operational efficiency.
Air cargo and ground operations extend far beyond the loading and unloading of freight—they require meticulous planning, security compliance, real-time communication, and effective resource management. Participants will explore essential topics such as International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards, Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR), unit load device (ULD) management, aircraft marshalling, ground support equipment (GSE) operations, and cargo tracking systems. The curriculum also emphasizes safety, quality, and sustainability, covering best practices in reducing environmental impact through fuel efficiency, noise control, and eco-friendly ground operations.
Whether working for an airline, ground handling agent, airport authority, freight forwarder, or logistics provider, graduates of the CACGOP™/CACGOM™ program will be prepared to deliver world-class service standards, maintain regulatory compliance, and optimize the end-to-end flow of air cargo and ground operations.
Certification Program Objectives:
Upon completing the Certified Air Cargo & Ground Operations Professional/Manager (CACGOP)™/(CACGOM)™ program, participants will be able to:
- Understand Air Cargo & Ground Operations Fundamentals – Gain a comprehensive understanding of cargo flows, aircraft turnaround, and ground handling processes.
- Ensure Safety and Compliance – Apply IATA, ICAO, and DGR regulations in day-to-day operations.
- Manage Cargo Handling and Load Control – Oversee the efficient and safe loading, unloading, and balancing of aircraft.
- Optimize Ground Operations Resources – Plan and deploy GSE, staff, and facilities effectively.
- Leverage Technology for Efficiency – Use cargo management systems, real-time tracking, and digital documentation tools.
- Implement Sustainable Practices – Integrate eco-friendly and energy-efficient solutions into operations.
Certification Eligibility Criteria:
To apply for certification from The Operations Management Institute (OMI), candidates must meet the following criteria:
- A Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution
And/or
- 0–4.9 years relevant experience for Professional level (CACGOP)™, or 5+ years for Manager level (CACGOM)™.
Note: Applicants who do not hold a Bachelor’s degree but possess exceptional professional experience and hold significant positions within their organizations in a relevant field may also be considered for certification on a case-by-case basis, subject to the approval of the OMI evaluation committee.
Certifying Examination:
- To be certified as CACGOP™/CACGOM™, student should take up a 1.5 hours online exam conducted by OMI.
- The qualifying exam would consist of 50 multiple choice questions, testing core certification modules.
- Professionals with relevant experience and other qualifying criteria may be exempted from the examination.
Certification Modules:
- Module 1: Fundamentals of Air Cargo & Ground Operations
- Module 2: Cargo Handling, Load Control, and Aircraft Weight & Balance
- Module 3: Ramp Operations, Aircraft Servicing, and GSE Management
- Module 4: IATA/ICAO Regulations, DGR Compliance, and Security Procedures
- Module 5: Technology, Cargo Tracking, and Digital Documentation
- Module 6: Sustainability, Performance Optimization, and Best Practices
* The Certification Title and its modules are regularly reviewed, updated and may change in alignment with evolving industry needs and regulatory standards.
Who Should Do This Certification:
The CACGOP™/CACGOM™ certification is ideal for professionals engaged in the movement and management of air cargo and ground handling activities, including:
- Air Cargo Operations Managers – Overseeing cargo handling and documentation processes.
- Ground Operations Supervisors – Coordinating aircraft servicing and turnaround activities.
- Ramp Services Coordinators – Managing GSE deployment and ramp safety compliance.
- Freight Forwarding Specialists – Ensuring efficient and compliant cargo movements.
- Airport Operations Staff – Supporting airside and landside operational activities.
- Consultants and Advisors – Providing strategic solutions for air cargo and ground handling efficiency.
Key Benefits of CACGOP / CACGOM Certification
- Professional Recognition – Establishes you as a certified expert in air cargo and ground operations.
- Career Growth – Opens opportunities in airlines, airports, and logistics companies worldwide.
- Global Relevance – Applicable to international and domestic air transport operations.
- Practical Learning – Focus on real-world challenges and operational problem-solving.
- Professional Network – Connect with a global community of aviation and cargo professionals.
- Measurable Impact – Improve turnaround times, enhance safety, and reduce operational costs.
- Best Practice Alignment – Based on globally recognized aviation, safety, and cargo handling standards.
The CACGOP™/CACGOM™ certification is relevant across all air cargo and ground handling sectors, empowering professionals to deliver safe, compliant, and efficient operations that meet the demands of global aviation and logistics. Whether your goal is career progression, operational excellence, or service quality improvement, this program provides the skills and expertise to succeed.
