I’m Rob Kennedy, a lifelong educator, trained classical musician, and unapologetic AvGeek. I’ve launched AvGeek in Residence to explore the overlooked, under-lit corners of the aviation industry: the people, systems, and stories that power the industry, from the ramp to the operations centers and beyond.
In these challenging times, when companies everywhere are downsizing, being acquired, or even going out of business, I want you to be aware of the opportunities available worldwide in aviation. My goal is to provide you with a glimpse into some of the hundreds of jobs available in this sector. Literally, there’s something for every age, experience level, and skill set.
Today’s story begins with a look at the men and women who drive all those vehicles we see on the ramp.
Listen to this article now. Audio powered by LM Notebook.
🚜Another Lesser-known Aviation Job: Ramp Drivers
Welcome back to AvGeek in Residence, where we explore often-overlooked careers that keep aviation running smoothly. Today, we turn our attention to transport drivers, those professionals behind the wheel of everything from airport shuttles to catering trucks. These roles are vital to the safe and efficient movement of people and equipment throughout airport ramps.
But with growing concerns about careless driving on airport ramps, this issue spotlights one thing above all: safety.
Additionally, with thousands of long-haul truck drivers being displaced by tariff wars and global supply chain shifts, many are discovering that their skill set translates well to the high-stakes world of aviation ground transport. We’ve all seen how the driver of an 18-wheeler deftly maneuvers his rig into the highest of turns and spaces. Well, that’s precisely the kind of experience needed on the ramp when you are bringing catering trucks and fueling equipment alongside a passenger jet. These jobs are for those who already prioritize safety, precision, and situational awareness.
🛻 Passenger Transport: Moving People Safely Through the Aviation Hub
Whether it’s driving a shuttle from the long-term parking lot, chauffeuring a luxury limo for a VIP traveller, or piloting a COBUS loaded with over one hundred passengers to a remote position, ramp transport drivers are the first human connection many people have to an airport, indeed, with aviation itself.
Safety First:
Transporting passengers means more than just driving. These drivers must watch for aircraft, fuel trucks, and ramp workers while maintaining a strict schedule. Defensive driving and awareness of airside procedures are essential.
Roles Include:
Airport shuttle drivers for public, hotel, or rental car services
Airline crew van operators
Private chauffeurs and limousine services for premium passengers
Passenger shuttles to aircraft in remote positions
Required Skills:
Clean driving record and proper licenses, Class F or CDL
Excellent customer service
Ramp driving clearance or escort certifications
For former long-haul drivers accustomed to highway vigilance and extended periods of independent work, the airport setting offers a fast-paced yet familiar rhythm, with the bonus of working close to home.
Now I know some readers will say that there’s no extensive skill or experience needed to drive equipment on an airport ramp. However, I beg to differ. I well remember substituting for my father’s delivery truck driver for two weeks each summer while that employee took his vacation. I was just sixteen years old and had passed the tests for my Commercial Truck Driver’s License. It took me a while to learn how to back the truck into narrow spaces, how to use the mirrors to determine the rear of my vehicle's position, and so on. That experience gave me a great appreciation for the skills truck drivers use every day.
As this video illustrates, driving the tug that hauls five or six loaded baggage carts may look easy, but it actually requires a great deal of skill and situational awareness. And that’s in good weather. When it’s pouring rain or sleeting, well, that’s a whole different matter. Attention experienced truck drivers! A bright future awaits in the aviation sector.
This video shows a driver pulling baggage carts.
🚐 Vehicle and Crew Transport: Quiet Backbone of Airport Operations
Airports are mini-cities, and someone has to move the people and equipment between gates, hangars, and terminals. These transport drivers move vehicles and employees across the secure aviation environment without incident or delay.
Safety Spotlight
Ramp areas are tightly choreographed. One wrong turn can delay a flight or worse. Drivers must obey strict speed limits and yield to aircraft at all times. The most reliable transport drivers quickly earn the trust of aviation supervisors.
Key Responsibilities
Transporting airline staff between terminals and parking
Relocating service vehicles within the airport footprint
Supporting emergency or irregular operations by moving staff or equipment fast, but always safely
Long-haul drivers bring excellent judgment, a knack for following protocol, and the ability to navigate large vehicles in tight spaces—making them strong candidates for these airport-based roles.
🍽️ Galley & Catering Transport: Delivering Meals with Precision and Caution
Catering drivers are among the most highly visible transport professionals on the ramp. They operate those high-lift trucks that elevate to aircraft doors, loading galley carts filled with meals, beverages, and supplies.
Aviation Safety Demands
These drivers receive specialized training to prevent damage to aircraft and equipment. A careless bump from a catering truck can cost an airline tens of thousands of dollars in repair costs. More importantly, careless driving can endanger passengers and crew.
Roles Include:
Operating catering trucks for airline catering companies such as Gate Gourmet, LSG Sky Chefs
Transporting galley carts between kitchen facilities and aircraft gates
Skills Needed:
Operating scissor-lift vehicles
Understanding food safety regulations
Navigating tight ramp spaces with large trucks
The transition from highway rigs to catering trucks is especially natural for former long-haul drivers, who already know how to handle high-clearance vehicles, manage schedules, and respect freight integrity.
iThus video shows the driver of a catering vehicle at work.
⚙️ Specialized Transport: The Unsung Heroes of Aviation Logistics
Not all transport roles involve passengers or food. Some are deeply specialized, like the lavatory service, fuel truck operators, baggage tug drivers, and even mortuary transport.
Focus on Respect and Responsibility
These aviation professionals often handle sensitive or critical cargo. Whether it's safely towing luggage carts or discreetly transporting deceased individuals, these roles demand a deep respect for procedures and people.
Examples Include:
Lavatory and potable water service drivers
Fuel truck drivers
Baggage tug operators
Mortuary or medical cargo transport
Safety Insight
These vehicles operate in close proximity to aircraft. A single distracted moment can cause significant harm. For aviation employers, thorough safety training is non-negotiable, and drivers who internalize it thrive.
Former long-haul truckers already understand the seriousness of transporting hazardous materials or perishable goods. That discipline and focus make them well-suited to highly regulated aviation support roles.
🧭 Getting Started: Aviation Careers with the Keys in Your Hand
Who’s Hiring?
Requirements Typically Include:
Background checks for security clearance, RAIC in Canada, SIDA in the U.S.
Ramp safety training and airside driving certification
Flexibility to work rotating shifts in all weather
Career Growth Potential
Many drivers move into lead roles, dispatch, or cross-train into ground handling or aviation logistics coordination. Some even transition into operations or safety roles.
For long-haul drivers looking to stay local while remaining in the transportation sector, aviation offers an opportunity to apply their experience in a structured, high-reward environment.
This video highlights some key elements of ramp safety.
✈️ Final Approach: Safety Is a Career Advantage
Transport drivers aren’t just behind the wheel; they’re at the center of safe, efficient aviation operations. A driver who respects procedures, remains alert, and treats every task with care is a valuable asset to any airline or airport.
If you’re exploring aviation careers, don’t overlook this essential category. Whether you’re moving people, meals, gear, or something more sensitive, safe, focused driving is your ticket in.
✈️ Stay curious,
Rob Kennedy
AvGeek in Residence
🔜 Coming Up Next in AvGeek in Residence
Avionic Technicians: Specialize in the installation, maintenance, and repair of an aircraft's electronic systems, including navigation, communication, and flight control systems.
Aviation Systems Technicians: Responsible for the maintenance of aircraft aviation systems, including propulsion, airframe, basic electrical, and their related components.
Airport Safety or Compliance Inspector: Responsible for ensuring that airports adhere to safety and regulatory standards.
Editor’s Note: I write the articles on AvGeek in Residence in collaboration with ChatGPT. This wonderful AI tool functions as my research assistant, my editor, and my brainstorming partner. ~ Rob Kennedy