LICQual UK Level 3 Diploma in Airport Operations
The LICQual UK Level 3 Diploma in Airport Management is a professionally designed qualification that prepares learners for a successful career in the fast-paced and globally connected aviation industry. As airports continue to expand and modernise, there is increasing demand for skilled professionals who understand airport operations, passenger services, safety procedures, and regulatory compliance. This diploma provides a strong foundation for individuals seeking to enter or progress within airport and aviation-related roles.
The course introduces learners to key areas of airport management, including airside and landside operations, customer service excellence, aviation safety and security, airport administration, and operational coordination. It focuses on developing both theoretical understanding and practical workplace skills that are essential for effective airport operations.
Designed for school leavers, early-career professionals, and those aspiring to work in airport environments, this qualification supports career development in airlines, airports, ground handling companies, and aviation service providers. On successful completion, learners gain industry-relevant knowledge, improved employability, and a clear pathway to higher-level studies in aviation management, airport operations, or related business disciplines.
Program Outline
The LICQual UK Level 3 Diploma in Airport Management is a 60-credit professional training programme designed to develop essential knowledge and skills for working in today’s dynamic aviation sector. Delivered through six comprehensive units, the qualification provides learners with a strong understanding of airport operations, safety standards, and customer-focused services.
Core Areas of Study
The course covers key aspects of airport management, including airport operations, airside and landside coordination, aviation safety and security, passenger services, regulatory compliance, and airport administration. Learners gain insight into how airports operate efficiently while meeting international aviation standards.
Professional Practices
Emphasis is placed on professional conduct, teamwork, communication, and operational responsibility within airport environments. Learners develop the ability to follow procedures, manage risks, and support smooth airport operations.
Practical Application
Through case studies, real-world scenarios, and applied learning activities, learners build practical skills that can be directly transferred to the workplace. This diploma prepares learners for entry-level and supervisory roles across airports, airlines, and aviation service providers, while also supporting progression to higher-level aviation studies.
Unit Structure
| Qualification | Unit Title | Credits | GLH |
| LICQ2201241-1 | Introduction to the Aviation Industry | 10 | 40 |
| LICQ2201241-2 | Airport Operations & Ground Handling | 10 | 40 |
| LICQ2201241-3 | Aviation Safety, Security & Emergency Procedures | 10 | 40 |
| LICQ2201241-4 | Customer Service in Aviation | 10 | 40 |
| LICQ2201241-5 | Airline & Airport Business Fundamentals | 10 | 40 |
| LICQ2201241-6 | Communication & Professional Skills for Aviation | 10 | 40 |
Who Can Benefit
- School leavers and recent graduates who are looking to enter the aviation industry with a recognised qualification and gain a strong foundation in airport operations and management principles.
- Individuals aspiring to work at airports, including roles in passenger services, airport operations, ground handling, and terminal management.
- Entry-level aviation professionals who want to enhance their knowledge, improve career prospects, and progress into supervisory or junior management roles.
- Customer service and frontline staff working in airports or airlines who wish to develop operational and management skills relevant to airport environments.
- Ground handling, security, and support staff seeking formal training to strengthen their understanding of airport procedures, safety, and compliance.
- Career changers interested in transitioning into the aviation sector and gaining industry-specific skills.
- Learners planning academic progression to higher-level diplomas or degrees in airport, aviation, or business management.
This course is ideal for anyone seeking practical, career-focused training for the global aviation industry
What You’ll Be Able to Do
Unit 1: Introduction to the Aviation Industry
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Explain the structure of the global aviation industry, including ICAO, IATA, and national regulatory bodies.
- Identify the roles and functions of airports, airlines, and air navigation services in international air transport.
- Analyze the economic and social impact of aviation on global trade, tourism, and connectivity.
- Demonstrate understanding of aviation terminology, codes, and industry standards used worldwide.
- Evaluate the evolution of aviation history and technology and its influence on modern airport management.
- Apply knowledge of current trends and challenges in aviation such as sustainability, digitalization, and globalization.
Unit 2: Airport Operations & Ground Handling
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Describe the end-to-end passenger journey through an airport, from check-in to boarding.
- Demonstrate knowledge of ground handling operations, including baggage, ramp, fueling, and catering services.
- Apply international safety and service standards (IATA AHM, ICAO Annexes) to airport operations.
- Evaluate the importance of turnaround efficiency and its impact on airline punctuality and profitability.
- Identify the technology systems (DCS, baggage handling, A-CDM) that support airport operations.
- Assess the role of coordination between airlines, airports, and ground service providers in ensuring seamless operations.
Unit 3: Aviation Safety, Security & Emergency Procedures
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Explain the principles of aviation safety management systems (SMS) and ICAO Annex 19 requirements.
- Apply knowledge of aviation security protocols (Annex 17, TSA, EU standards) to airport environments.
- Demonstrate understanding of emergency response procedures, including fire, medical, and evacuation drills.
- Evaluate the role of risk assessment and hazard identification in preventing aviation incidents.
- Analyze case studies of aviation accidents and security breaches to identify lessons learned.
- Develop awareness of cybersecurity and emerging threats in modern airport operations.
Unit 4: Customer Service in Aviation
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Demonstrate understanding of customer service excellence in the aviation and airport context.
- Apply cross-cultural communication skills to enhance passenger satisfaction in a global environment.
- Evaluate the impact of service quality on airline and airport competitiveness.
- Identify strategies for handling complaints, disruptions, and special assistance passengers.
- Use customer feedback and service metrics (NPS, CSAT) to improve aviation service delivery.
- Apply digital tools and self-service technologies to enhance the passenger experience.
Unit 5: Airline & Airport Business Fundamentals
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Explain the business models of airlines and airports, including low-cost versus full-service carriers.
- Analyze airport revenue streams, including aeronautical and non-aeronautical income.
- Demonstrate understanding of airline–airport partnerships and slot allocation systems.
- Evaluate the impact of global economic trends on aviation demand and airport profitability.
- Apply knowledge of aviation marketing and route development strategies.
- Assess the role of sustainability and corporate responsibility in aviation business models.
Unit 6: Communication & Professional Skills for Aviation
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Demonstrate proficiency in aviation English and industry-standard communication protocols.
- Apply effective teamwork and leadership skills in multicultural aviation environments.
- Use digital communication tools and reporting systems relevant to airport and airline operations.
- Evaluate the importance of professional ethics, integrity, and compliance in aviation careers.
- Develop presentation, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills for aviation workplace scenarios.
- Apply time management and organizational skills to meet operational and customer service demands.
