ICTQual International Level 1 Award in Air Cargo Management
The ICTQual International Level 1 Award in Air Cargo Management is a concise, industry-relevant qualification designed to introduce learners to the core principles of air cargo operations. Delivered as a focused 3-hour training programme, this award is ideal for freshers exploring aviation careers and professionals seeking to formalise their foundational knowledge in cargo logistics.
Air cargo plays a vital role in global trade and supply chain efficiency. This course equips learners with essential skills in cargo handling, basic documentation, labelling standards, and safety awareness. It also introduces the operational flow of cargo from acceptance to loading, helping learners understand how freight is managed within airport and logistics environments.
Learners will gain practical insight into the responsibilities of cargo personnel, the importance of compliance, and the role of communication in maintaining safe and efficient operations. The programme supports entry-level readiness for roles such as cargo assistant, warehouse operative, or logistics support staff.
This internationally recognised award enhances employability and serves as a stepping stone toward further vocational qualifications, including Level 2 and Level 3 programmes in air cargo, logistics, or airport operations. Delivered flexibly across ICTQual AB centres, it supports global accessibility and local workforce development.
By completing this course, learners take their first step into the dynamic world of air cargo management—building confidence, competence, and career direction in a growing global industry.
International Level 1 Award in Air Cargo Management
To enrol in ICTQual International Level 1 Award in Air Cargo Management, learner must meet the following entry requirements:
This qualification, the ICTQual International Level 1 Award in Air Cargo Management, consists of 3 mandatory units.
- Introduction to Air Cargo Services
- Basic Cargo Handling and Safety Awareness
- Roles and Functions in Airport Cargo Operations
Learning Outcomes for the ICTQual International Level 1 Award in Air Cargo Management:
Introduction to Air Cargo Services
- Understand the basic purpose and importance of air cargo in global trade and logistics
- Identify common types of cargo transported via air, including general, special, and express freight
- Recognise the role of air cargo in supporting airport operations and supply chain efficiency
- Describe the key differences between passenger and cargo services within aviation
- Understand the basic terminology used in air cargo environments
- Identify major stakeholders involved in air cargo operations (e.g. airlines, ground handlers, freight forwarders)
- Appreciate the role of air cargo in emergency response, e-commerce, and time-critical deliveries
- Develop awareness of career pathways and progression opportunities in air cargo services
Basic Cargo Handling and Safety Awareness
- Understand the importance of safe cargo handling procedures in airport environments
- Identify basic equipment used in cargo loading, unloading, and storage
- Recognise common safety hazards in cargo areas and how to report them
- Follow basic safety protocols for lifting, moving, and securing cargo
- Understand the importance of personal protective equipment (PPE) in cargo operations
- Identify restricted and dangerous goods and understand basic handling precautions
- Appreciate the role of security checks and screening in cargo safety
- Demonstrate awareness of emergency procedures and safety signage in cargo zones
Roles and Functions in Airport Cargo Operations
- Identify key job roles in airport cargo operations, including handlers, supervisors, and coordinators
- Understand the responsibilities of ground handling teams in cargo acceptance and movement
- Recognise the role of documentation and communication in cargo processing
- Describe the basic workflow of cargo from acceptance to delivery
- Understand how cargo is tracked and monitored during airport handling
- Appreciate the importance of teamwork and coordination in cargo environments
- Identify support functions such as customer service, security, and logistics coordination
- Develop awareness of how each role contributes to safe, efficient, and compliant cargo operations
The ICTQual International Level 1 Award in Air Cargo Management is a foundational 3-hour qualification that introduces learners to the essential principles of air cargo handling, documentation, and safety. Upon completion, learners are well-prepared to pursue further vocational training, gain practical experience, and explore entry-level roles in the global aviation and logistics sector. This award supports lifelong learning and professional development across ICTQual AB centres and international training environments.
Progression to Level 2 Vocational Qualifications
- Enrol in the ICTQual International Level 2 Award in Air Cargo Management
- Build deeper knowledge in cargo documentation, labelling, and operational coordination
- Strengthen readiness for structured vocational training in logistics and freight handling
- Explore related Level 2 programmes in airport operations or cargo services
- Develop practical understanding of cargo flow and compliance procedures
- Prepare for longer-duration, credit-based qualifications
- Align learning with international vocational standards and frameworks
- Support career development through progressive skill-building pathways
Entry into Entry-Level Cargo and Logistics Roles
- Apply for roles such as cargo assistant, warehouse helper, or logistics support staff
- Assist with basic cargo acceptance, sorting, and labelling tasks
- Support documentation and inventory checks under supervision
- Gain exposure to airport cargo terminals and freight handling environments
- Demonstrate workplace safety awareness and basic communication skills
- Build confidence in handling physical cargo and following procedures
- Strengthen employability in courier services, freight centres, and logistics hubs
- Contribute to operational efficiency and team-based service delivery
Development of Workplace Readiness and Soft Skills
- Improve communication, teamwork, and time management in logistics settings
- Understand the importance of punctuality, safety, and professional conduct
- Build confidence in following instructions and standard operating procedures
- Develop adaptability in fast-paced cargo and warehouse environments
- Strengthen problem-solving and service orientation
- Prepare for vocational interviews and workplace assessments
- Engage in collaborative learning and peer support activities
- Support personal growth and career motivation
Exploration of Centre-Based Training and Practical Workshops
- Participate in hands-on workshops focused on cargo handling and safety
- Engage in simulations of cargo flow, documentation, and warehouse operations
- Build familiarity with basic cargo tools, labels, and tracking systems
- Strengthen understanding of operational procedures through guided practice
- Receive feedback and mentoring from experienced trainers
- Explore blended learning opportunities across ICTQual AB centres
- Align training with international vocational benchmarks
- Prepare for assessments and progression reviews
Preparation for Level 3 Vocational Programmes
- Build foundational knowledge for Level 3 qualifications in air cargo or logistics
- Strengthen readiness for supervisory-level training in cargo operations
- Prepare for structured assessments and credit-based progression
- Explore specialisms such as customs clearance, warehousing, or cargo security
- Align learning with global freight and logistics frameworks
- Demonstrate readiness for more advanced vocational programmes
- Support transition into longer-duration qualifications
- Build confidence in pursuing higher-level vocational learning
Career Pathways in Air Cargo and Logistics
- Explore opportunities in airport cargo terminals and freight forwarding companies
- Understand the role of cargo operations in global supply chains
- Identify career options in documentation, warehouse support, and cargo coordination
- Build awareness of international cargo service standards
- Strengthen employability in courier hubs and logistics centres
- Gain insight into long-term career progression in aviation logistics
- Connect learning with real-world cargo environments
- Support career clarity and professional goal-setting
Lifelong Learning and Professional Growth
- Discover personal strengths in air cargo management and logistics
- Set goals for future qualifications and workplace achievements
- Build motivation for continued vocational learning
- Explore new areas of interest within freight and aviation services
- Engage with global learning communities and peer networks
- Strengthen personal identity and career direction
- Develop a mindset for continuous improvement
- Prepare for a rewarding journey in air cargo and logistics