The Master of Stationary Aircraft: For a “Ramp Agent,” Time Ticks Rapidly Between Landing and Restart
Dresden – Taking off and off to vacation. Everyone knows how a flight to a holiday goes. But what happens between the landing of an aircraft and its restart at the airport is mostly hidden from passengers.
The Role of a Ramp Agent
During a typical turnaround at Dresden Airport, a ramp agent (aircraft handler) takes control of the aircraft on the ground. This involves the orchestration of various teams, all working simultaneously against the clock. The primary goal is to get the aircraft back into the air as quickly as possible.
Unlike pilots, who are masters of the aircraft while airborne, ramp agents take charge the moment the plane touches down. In the case of Paul Löschner (28), his responsibilities encompass baggage loading and unloading, refueling, cleaning the cabin, pumping toilets, and of course, boarding passengers. Today, the passengers on SunExpress Flight XQ 297 to Antalya are eagerly peering out the windows, wondering when they will take off. However, Löschner remains in constant communication with the pilot, ensuring all hatches are closed and that the area behind the aircraft is clear.
The Countdown Begins
Löschner serves as a sort of rearview mirror for the pilot, who cannot see what is happening behind the aircraft. As he prepares for the next steps, Nicki Dietrich (26) positions herself at her push-back vehicle, ready to guide the plane slowly backward towards the taxiway. This teamwork is crucial for a timely departure.
Quick Turnaround Procedures
As Flight XQ 297 prepares for departure, another aircraft, a Lufthansa Airbus A320, touches down at the same time. Löschner takes advantage of this brief moment to check the baggage area, where the last few bags are rolling off the conveyor belt. In a well-organized system, baggage isn’t just sorted by destination but also by urgency, ensuring that critical connections are prioritized.
As soon as the Lufthansa flight approaches the terminal, a flurry of ramp agents rush to the aircraft like a well-oiled machine. One technician connects the aircraft to the Ground Power Unit to save fuel and reduce noise levels. Meanwhile, luggage is swapped under the passengers’ seats while they disembark.
Fuel and Last Checks
After all passengers have exited, the aircraft fueler, Stephan Herrmann (46), swings into action, filling the tanks as quickly as possible. He reports that 1.7 tons of kerosene are requested, and it takes only minutes to complete this process.
Meanwhile, the pilot, Alexander Meier (51), inspects the engines for any damage after the aircraft’s landing, while the ramp crew gets the first passengers ready for boarding—typically business class and families first. All this requires intense coordination and a focus on speed.
Racing Against Time
Once everything is ready, Löschner receives the final go-ahead and transfers control back to the pilot. In less time than it takes for most flights to complete, the aircraft is off the ground again after just 55 minutes of ground contact.
The next aircraft is already on the horizon, and each moment counts as Löschner prepares to take on another plane, illustrating the intricate dance that happens behind the scenes at the airport.
A Passion Turned Career
Besides being a ramp agent, Paul Löschner is also engaged in quality management at Dresden International Airport. His passion for aviation began in childhood, and he studied engineering at the Dresden University of Applied Sciences. While other students worked part-time jobs, he found his niche at the airport, blending education with experience in aircraft handling.
Since 2025, Löschner has embraced the role of ramp agent fully. During peak times, such as at UEFA events, he’s often faced with a whirlwind of activity, emphasizing the critical nature of effective time management in this high-pressure environment.
The behind-the-scenes workings of an airport are a testament to teamwork and efficiency, ensuring that airplanes continue to take to the skies on time, every time.
