In 2018, Ryanair identified an opportunity to improve its ground handling operations at its biggest airport, Stansted.
The low cost carrier subsequently put the contract out to tender. After an extensive review, Ryanair selected OmniServ, the European arm of global airport and airline services supplier, ABM, to work with it on delivering a bold new vision.
In the space of three months, OmniServ worked seamlessly with the local Ryanair team, headed up by Chris Hughes, to develop and implement a completely new operation, Blue Handling, with nearly 1,000 staff. Just over half came over from the previous supplier under TUPE regulations, while OmniServ recruited another 450.
The new Blue Handling operation is now responsible for Ryanair’s above- and below-wing ground handling, providing baggage agents, ramp agents, toilet and water services, de-icing, runway services, cargo handling and ticket desk staff. At the same time, Ryanair significantly invested in new equipment, including vehicles and technologies that improved the employee and passenger experience.
Rob Stefanovic, Senior Commercial Manager at OmniServ, commented: “We wanted team members to feel part of the brand. They now have a strong sense of teamwork, passion and pride in their jobs.” Ryanair’s Chris Hughes added: “We wanted to win the hearts and minds of all employees, old and new, and we did that by delivering an extensive staff engagement programme that really sold them on the brand and got them feeling pride and passion again.”
Ryanair Operations Director Adrian Dunne concludes: “Blue Handling has been a major success, and was up and running very quickly, delivering above and beyond what we would have expected.”
Originally published Ground Handling International | 11 September 2019