Day in the life
A Day in the Life of an Aircraft Cargo Supervisor
What aircraft cargo supervisors actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for an aircraft cargo supervisor?
Brief the crew. From there, the day usually includes direct ramp crews, plan loads, and check weight and balance. Shifts include nights, weekends and holidays.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for an aircraft cargo supervisor working full time.
- Brief the crew.
- Review load plans.
- Load the first flight.
- Check hazmat placement.
- Handle a late cargo arrival.
- Unload an arrival.
- Report on-time stats.
Where aircraft cargo supervisors work
Supervisors work on airport ramps and in cargo facilities.
Hours and schedule
Shifts include nights, weekends and holidays.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Direct ramp crews
- Plan loads
- Check weight and balance
- Verify hazmat
- Secure cargo
- Coordinate with flight crews
- Keep departures on time
Tools you’ll use every day
- Load planning software
- Belt loaders
- Tugs
- ULD loaders
- Radios
- Scanners
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Faster-than-average growth
- Leadership without a degree
- Airline perks
- Fast-paced
What’s hard
- Weather on the ramp
- Noise
- Odd hours
- Time pressure
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I like airports
- I lead well under time pressure
- I don’t mind weather
- I like teamwork
- I can work odd hours
- I want to lead without a degree
Not sure? Take the free Aircraft Cargo Supervisor fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Wear hearing protection
- Wear high-visibility gear
- Stay clear of engines and props
- Follow hazmat rules