Turnaround
The complete cycle of ground handling activities performed on an aircraft between its arrival and its subsequent departure from the same stand.
Full Definition
Turnaround (also written turn-around or turn around, though single-word form is standard in operational documents) refers to the full sequence of tasks — deplaning, cleaning, catering, refuelling, loading baggage and cargo, and boarding — completed during an aircraft's time on stand. Turnaround time is a critical productivity metric for airlines and handling agents, and is tightly managed through a turnaround coordinator or ramp coordinator. Editors should use the single-word form 'turnaround' consistently in operational and scheduling documents. 'Quick turnaround' or 'fast turnaround' are common adjectival forms in low-cost carrier documents.
Usage
Usage note: Preferred spelling is the single word 'turnaround' in operational documents. Avoid 'turn-around' unless a house style requires it.
In Context
- "The target turnaround time for narrow-body aircraft is 25 minutes under the airline's operational standard." — Ground handling performance report
- "All turnaround activities must be recorded in the electronic ground handling system upon completion." — Handling agent operations manual