The LICQual UK Level 3 Diploma in Airport and Cargo Operations is your gateway to a dynamic career in aviation logistics. Designed for beginners and early-career professionals, this UK-certified qualification equips you with the practical skills and industry knowledge needed to thrive in airport ground handling, cargo logistics, and freight operations.
This Level 3 airport and cargo handling course covers essential topics such as airside operations, cargo movement, freight documentation, warehouse safety, and regulatory compliance. Whether you’re aiming to become a certified cargo handler, airport ground staff, or logistics assistant, this diploma provides a solid foundation aligned with international standards.
The program is ideal for learners seeking a globally recognized airport logistics qualification. With flexible online study options, it’s accessible to both UK-based and international students. You can study at your own pace while gaining the skills required for airport and cargo jobs with a Level 3 diploma.
Each module is designed to reflect real-world airport and cargo operations. You’ll learn how to manage cargo workflows, handle airport logistics, and follow safety protocols that meet global aviation standards. The curriculum also includes training in freight documentation, cargo security, and airside compliance—key areas for anyone entering the aviation logistics sector.
What sets the LICQual UK Level 3 Diploma in Airport and Cargo Operations apart is its practical focus, international credibility, and career-ready outcomes. You won’t just learn theory—you’ll develop hands-on skills that employers in the aviation and logistics industries value.
If you’re ready to start your journey in airport and cargo operations, this diploma offers a structured, respected, and flexible pathway into one of the most essential sectors of global transportation.
Course Overview
Qualification Title
LICQual UK Level 3 Diploma in Airport and Cargo Operations
Total Units
6
Total Credits
60
GLH
240
Qualification #
LICQ2201261
Qualification Specification
To enroll in the LICQual UK Level 3 Diploma in Airport and Cargo Operations, applicants must meet the following criteria:
|
Qualification# |
Unit Title |
Credits |
GLH |
|---|---|---|---|
|
LICQ2201261-1 |
Fundamentals of Airport and Cargo Operations |
10 |
40 |
|
LICQ2201261-2 |
Cargo Handling & Storage Procedures |
10 |
40 |
|
LICQ2201261-3 |
Aviation Safety, Security & Dangerous Goods Awareness |
10 |
40 |
|
LICQ2201261-4 |
International Documentation, Customs & Trade Compliance |
10 |
40 |
|
LICQ2201261-5 |
Passenger & Cargo Customer Service Excellence |
10 |
40 |
|
LICQ2201261-6 |
Digital Systems, ICT & Cargo Tracking Technologies |
10 |
40 |
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
1. Fundamentals of Airport and Cargo Operations
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Explain the structure and functions of modern airports and cargo terminals.
- Identify key stakeholders in airport and cargo operations and their interrelationships.
- Demonstrate knowledge of airport ground handling processes and cargo flow systems.
- Apply international standards in airport logistics and cargo management.
- Evaluate the role of airport operations in global aviation and trade.
- Understand career pathways and professional opportunities in airport and cargo operations.
2. Cargo Handling, Warehousing & Ramp Safety
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Demonstrate correct procedures for safe cargo handling and storage.
- Apply best practices in warehouse management and cargo inventory control.
- Implement ramp safety protocols to prevent accidents and ensure compliance.
- Operate within international cargo handling standards and aviation guidelines.
- Assess risks in cargo loading, unloading, and ramp operations.
- Coordinate cargo movement efficiently to support airport logistics.
3. Aviation Safety, Security & Dangerous Goods Awareness
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Explain aviation safety principles and their application in airport operations.
- Identify security threats and apply preventive measures in cargo and passenger areas.
- Demonstrate awareness of ICAO and IATA regulations on dangerous goods.
- Apply correct procedures for handling, labeling, and transporting hazardous cargo.
- Evaluate the importance of safety culture in aviation and cargo operations.
- Ensure compliance with international aviation safety and security standards.
4. International Documentation, Customs & Trade Compliance
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Interpret and complete essential international cargo documentation.
- Apply customs regulations and trade compliance procedures in cargo operations.
- Demonstrate knowledge of import, export, and transit documentation requirements.
- Ensure compliance with international trade laws and aviation cargo standards.
- Evaluate the impact of customs clearance on global supply chain efficiency.
- Communicate effectively with customs and trade authorities.
5. Passenger & Cargo Customer Service Excellence
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Deliver professional customer service in both passenger and cargo operations.
- Apply communication skills to resolve customer queries and complaints effectively.
- Demonstrate cultural awareness and professionalism in international aviation contexts.
- Enhance customer satisfaction through service quality and operational efficiency.
- Evaluate the role of customer service in building airline and cargo brand reputation.
- Apply service excellence strategies to improve passenger and cargo experiences.
6. Digital Systems, ICT & Cargo Tracking Technologies
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of digital systems used in airport and cargo operations.
- Apply ICT tools for real-time cargo tracking and logistics management.
- Evaluate the role of digitalization in improving airport efficiency and safety.
- Use cargo tracking technologies to enhance transparency and customer trust.
- Integrate digital solutions with international aviation and cargo standards.
- Assess future trends in ICT and their impact on airport and cargo operations.
The LICQual UK Level 3 Diploma in Airport and Cargo Operations is designed for individuals who want to build a rewarding career in aviation, airport logistics, and international cargo management. Whether you are a school leaver, a working professional, or someone looking to transition into the aviation industry, this UK-accredited diploma provides the skills, knowledge, and global recognition needed to succeed. It is ideal for learners who want to gain practical expertise in airport operations, cargo handling, aviation safety, and customer service excellence.
1. School Leavers and Fresh Graduates
- Ideal for students who have completed secondary education and want to enter the aviation industry.
- Provides a direct pathway into airport and cargo operations without requiring prior work experience.
- Builds foundational knowledge in aviation logistics, cargo handling, and airport safety.
- Offers internationally recognized certification to boost employability.
- Helps young learners explore career opportunities in airlines, airports, and logistics companies.
2. Aspiring Aviation Professionals
- Perfect for individuals aiming to start a career in airport and cargo management.
- Equips learners with practical skills in ground handling, ramp safety, and cargo documentation.
- Provides industry-relevant knowledge aligned with ICAO and IATA standards.
- Enhances career prospects in both domestic and international aviation markets.
- Builds confidence to work in high-demand airport and cargo operations roles.
3. Working Professionals in Logistics and Supply Chain
- Suitable for employees in logistics, freight forwarding, or supply chain roles seeking career advancement.
- Expands knowledge of international trade compliance and customs documentation.
- Strengthens expertise in warehousing, cargo tracking, and ICT systems.
- Provides a globally recognized qualification to support promotions and new opportunities.
- Bridges the gap between logistics operations and aviation-specific cargo management.
4. Airline and Airport Staff
- Designed for ground staff, ramp handlers, and cargo agents who want to upskill.
- Enhances understanding of aviation safety, security, and dangerous goods handling.
- Improves customer service skills for both passenger and cargo operations.
- Provides structured training to meet international aviation compliance standards.
- Opens pathways to supervisory and management-level roles within airlines and airports.
5. Career Changers and Industry Switchers
- Ideal for professionals from other industries looking to transition into aviation.
- Provides a comprehensive introduction to airport operations and cargo logistics.
- Offers flexible learning suitable for individuals with no prior aviation background.
- Builds transferable skills in customer service, safety, and international trade.
- Creates opportunities for entry into a high-growth, global industry.
6. International Students and Global Learners
- Suitable for learners worldwide seeking a UK-accredited aviation qualification.
- Provides global recognition, making it valuable for international career mobility.
- Covers international documentation, customs, and trade compliance.
- Equips learners with skills relevant to airports and cargo hubs across the world.
- Enhances employability in airlines, cargo companies, and global logistics firms.
7. Entrepreneurs and Business Owners in Aviation Logistics
- Designed for individuals planning to start or expand businesses in cargo or freight services.
- Provides insights into airport operations, cargo handling, and trade compliance.
- Strengthens knowledge of ICT systems and cargo tracking technologies.
- Helps entrepreneurs align business practices with international aviation standards.
- Builds credibility with clients through a recognized UK qualification.
Assessment and Verification
All units within this qualification are subject to internal assessment by the approved centre and external verification by LICQual. The qualification follows a criterion-referenced assessment approach, ensuring that learners meet all specified learning outcomes.
To achieve a ‘Pass’ in any unit, learners must provide valid, sufficient, and authentic evidence demonstrating their attainment of all learning outcomes and compliance with the prescribed assessment criteria. The Assessor is responsible for evaluating the evidence and determining whether the learner has successfully met the required standards.
Assessors must maintain a clear and comprehensive audit trail, documenting the basis for their assessment decisions to ensure transparency, consistency, and compliance with quality assurance requirements.