The LICQual UK Level 3 Diploma in Airport Cargo is a career-focused qualification designed for individuals looking to enter the dynamic world of airport cargo operations. Whether you’re starting fresh or transitioning from another industry, this UK-certified diploma provides the essential skills and global recognition needed to succeed in cargo logistics and freight handling roles.
This Level 3 airport cargo operations course covers key areas such as cargo handling procedures, warehouse safety, freight documentation, and airside movement protocols. You’ll gain practical knowledge in managing cargo workflows, ensuring regulatory compliance, and maintaining safety standards in high-volume airport environments. The curriculum is aligned with international cargo handling frameworks, making it ideal for learners seeking a globally recognized airport cargo qualification.
The LICQual UK Level 3 Diploma in Airport Cargo is suitable for both UK-based and international students. With flexible online study options, you can complete the course from anywhere while balancing work or personal commitments. It’s a perfect fit for those pursuing airport cargo jobs with a Level 3 diploma or aiming to become certified cargo handlers, warehouse coordinators, or logistics assistants.
Each module is designed to build real-world competence. From freight operations and cargo documentation to safety protocols and warehouse management, this diploma prepares you to contribute effectively to airport cargo teams and logistics operations.
What makes this program stand out is its accessibility, relevance, and international accreditation. You won’t just study theory—you’ll gain actionable skills that apply directly to airport cargo and freight environments.
If you’re ready to start your journey in aviation logistics, the LICQual UK Level 3 Diploma in Airport Cargo offers a structured, respected, and flexible pathway into one of the most vital sectors of global aviation.
Course Overview
Qualification Title
LICQual UK Level 3 Diploma in Airport Cargo
Total Units
6
Total Credits
60
GLH
240
Qualification #
LICQ2201257
Qualification Specification
To enroll in the LICQual UK Level 3 Diploma in Airport Cargo, applicants must meet the following criteria:
| 
 Qualification#  | 
 Unit Title 19067_088f47-fe> | 
 Credits 19067_3db8ca-42> | 
 GLH 19067_ca51d7-b0> | 
|---|---|---|---|
| 
 LICQ2201257-1 19067_eaced2-ee> | 
 Introduction to Air Cargo Operations 19067_cd2822-82> | 
 10 19067_60cc90-22> | 
 40 19067_7dc0e1-82> | 
| 
 LICQ2201257-2 19067_831ce1-98> | 
 Cargo Handling & Storage Procedures 19067_a15bc9-84> | 
 10 19067_bd3f41-61> | 
 40 19067_b100a9-81> | 
| 
 LICQ2201257-3 19067_ca80ca-25> | 
 Aviation Safety, Security & Dangerous Goods Awareness 19067_60a3c3-ec> | 
 10 19067_74e2eb-4c> | 
 40 19067_d809a0-3a> | 
| 
 LICQ2201257-4 19067_05a2f6-f2> | 
 Documentation & Customs Procedures 19067_bb5346-04> | 
 10 19067_98f1b2-e7> | 
 40 19067_938575-42> | 
| 
 LICQ2201257-5 19067_e741bc-44> | 
 Customer Service in Cargo Operations 19067_593e63-1e> | 
 10 19067_294c3d-4b> | 
 40 19067_085721-35> | 
| 
 LICQ2201257-6 19067_59cbb3-b0> | 
 ICT & Tracking Systems in Cargo 19067_9f03c4-1c> | 
 10 19067_8c0ef0-c1> | 
 40 19067_aef817-8c> | 
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
1. Introduction to Air Cargo Operations
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Explain the structure of the global air cargo industry, including the roles of airlines, freight forwarders, and ground handling agents.
 - Identify different types of cargo and their specific handling requirements.
 - Describe the end‑to‑end process of airport cargo operations from acceptance to delivery.
 - Apply international standards (ICAO/IATA) to basic cargo operations.
 - Evaluate the importance of air cargo in global trade and supply chain management.
 - Demonstrate awareness of career pathways and professional roles in airport cargo logistics.
 
2. Cargo Handling & Storage Procedures
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Apply safe handling techniques for general, perishable, and special cargo.
 - Demonstrate correct loading, unloading, and storage procedures in compliance with IATA Cargo Handling Manual (ICHM).
 - Inspect cargo for damage, irregularities, and compliance with safety standards.
 - Implement correct stowage and securing methods to maintain cargo integrity.
 - Evaluate warehouse layout and storage systems for efficiency and safety.
 - Use best practices to minimize risks of cargo damage and operational delays.
 
3. Aviation Safety, Security and Dangerous Goods Awareness
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Identify categories of dangerous goods and restricted items in line with ICAO/IATA regulations.
 - Apply correct labeling, packaging, and documentation procedures for dangerous goods.
 - Demonstrate awareness of aviation security protocols, including screening and access control.
 - Explain the impact of non‑compliance on safety, security, and legal liability.
 - Apply risk management principles to prevent incidents in cargo operations.
 - Promote a safety and security culture within airport cargo environments.
 
4. Documentation and Customs Procedures
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Prepare and interpret key cargo documents such as Air Waybills, manifests, and consignment notes.
 - Explain customs clearance processes for imports, exports, and transshipments.
 - Apply international trade compliance standards, including WTO and WCO guidelines.
 - Identify common errors in documentation and their impact on cargo movement.
 - Demonstrate the ability to complete customs declarations accurately and efficiently.
 - Evaluate the role of digitalization in modern customs and documentation systems.
 
5. Customer Service in Cargo Operations
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Demonstrate effective communication skills with shippers, freight forwarders, and regulatory authorities.
 - Apply customer service principles to resolve complaints and claims in cargo operations.
 - Evaluate customer expectations in the context of airport cargo logistics.
 - Implement service quality standards to enhance customer satisfaction and retention.
 - Use problem‑solving techniques to manage service disruptions and delays.
 - Promote a customer‑centric culture within airport cargo operations.
 
6. ICT and Tracking Systems in Cargo
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Operate cargo management systems, barcoding, and RFID technologies for cargo tracking.
 - Apply digital tools to monitor cargo movement in real time.
 - Evaluate the role of ICT in enhancing transparency, efficiency, and security in cargo logistics.
 - Demonstrate knowledge of emerging technologies such as blockchain and IoT in cargo tracking.
 - Analyze data from ICT systems to improve decision‑making and operational performance.
 - Ensure compliance with data security and confidentiality standards in cargo ICT systems.
 
The LICQual UK Level 3 Diploma in Airport Cargo is designed for individuals who want to start or advance their careers in aviation logistics, airport cargo handling, and freight operations. This UK accredited airport cargo diploma is suitable for fresh learners, working professionals, and those seeking internationally recognized qualifications in aviation and logistics. Whether you are aiming for entry‑level roles or planning to progress toward higher studies, this program provides the right foundation to succeed in the global air cargo industry.
1. Fresh School and College Graduates
- Ideal for learners who have completed secondary education and want to enter the aviation sector.
 - Provides a structured pathway into airport cargo and logistics careers.
 - Builds essential knowledge in cargo handling, documentation, and safety.
 - Offers a globally recognized UK qualification to boost employability.
 - Serves as a stepping stone to advanced diplomas and higher education.
 
2. Aspiring Aviation and Logistics Professionals
- Suitable for individuals aiming to start a career in airport cargo operations.
 - Equips learners with practical skills in handling, storage, and documentation.
 - Provides industry‑relevant knowledge aligned with ICAO and IATA standards.
 - Enhances career opportunities in freight forwarding and supply chain logistics.
 - Opens doors to international job markets in aviation cargo.
 
3. Current Cargo and Ground Handling Staff
- Designed for employees already working in airport cargo or ground handling.
 - Helps formalize existing skills with a UK accredited qualification.
 - Improves knowledge of safety, security, and dangerous goods handling.
 - Strengthens career progression opportunities within aviation logistics.
 - Provides recognition for professional development and industry compliance.
 
4. Freight Forwarding and Logistics Employees
- Suitable for staff working in freight forwarding companies.
 - Enhances understanding of customs procedures and cargo documentation.
 - Builds expertise in customer service and cargo tracking systems.
 - Improves efficiency in managing international shipments.
 - Adds credibility with a globally recognized diploma.
 
5. Career Changers Entering Aviation Logistics
- Perfect for individuals from other industries seeking a career shift.
 - Provides foundational knowledge of airport cargo operations.
 - Offers practical skills to transition smoothly into aviation logistics.
 - Ensures learners meet international compliance and safety standards.
 - Creates opportunities in both local and global aviation markets.
 
6. International Students and Global Learners
- Open to learners worldwide seeking a UK accredited airport cargo diploma.
 - Provides international recognition for career mobility.
 - Aligns with global standards in aviation and logistics training.
 - Enhances employability in multinational cargo and logistics companies.
 - Offers flexible learning for diverse educational and cultural backgrounds.
 
7. Professionals Seeking Career Progression
- Suitable for those aiming to move into supervisory or managerial roles.
 - Builds advanced knowledge of cargo operations and compliance.
 - Strengthens leadership and customer service skills in aviation logistics.
 - Provides a pathway to higher qualifications such as Level 6 Diploma.
 - Enhances long‑term career growth in the aviation and logistics industry.
 
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.
