FAA Hosts Industry Forum to Advance Ramp Worker Safety Nationwide
A cross-sector aviation forum gathered in D.C. to address ramp worker safety hazards and explore collaborative safety solutions.
- By Stasia DeMarco
- May 19, 2025
A diverse group of aviation industry stakeholders met on Thursday at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) headquarters building in Washington, D.C., to discuss ramp worker safety. The listening session was part of the FAA’s ongoing Call to Action for ramp workers' safety, including cargo handlers, fuelers, loaders, caterers, marshallers, and maintenance workers.
The goal of the forum was to identify hazards and explore innovative safety solutions by fostering collaboration and sharing best safety practices. The 2024 FAA Reauthorization Act mandated a review of airport ramp worker safety and ways to reduce accidents.
The forum featured presentations from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, National Air Transportation Association, SAE Aeroengine Hazard Zone Committee, Flight Safety International, airports, airlines, and labor groups.
Robust conversations focused on operational safety, training, change management, incidents, and perspectives on ramp worker hazards. Participants included representatives from the National Air Carrier Association, Airlines for America, Nashville International Airport, McGhee Tyson Airport, Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association, Transportation Workers of America, International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, and Communication Workers of America.
The feedback from participants regarding improving ramp task scheduling, reassessing staffing needs, and appropriate training was invaluable. The agency will evaluate how these actions support the requirements of section 353 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 to further enhance the future state of ramp worker safety.
About the Author
Stasia DeMarco brings a strong and varied journalism background to her role at Occupational Health & Safety, having previously served as a multimedia editor, broadcast journalist, professor and reviewer across major news organizations. As Content Editor, she writes news and feature articles, hosts sponsor and editorial webinars, co-hosts the SafetyPod worker health and safety podcast, and manages the brand’s digital and social media presence. She is committed to informing and engaging the safety community through compelling reporting and conversations that support safer, healthier workplaces.