Rui Barata
Ramp Agent Team Leader
With over 20 years of experience at the SATA Group, Rui Barata is currently head of the ramp agents’ team — a role that requires organization, responsibility, and empathy, above all. In this interview, Rui talks about his daily routine at the airport, the responsibility of ensuring that everything runs smoothly before each takeoff, and the satisfaction of leading a cohesive and professional team.
He believes the secret to success is to face challenges with humor and always stay focused on the essentials: safely and on time transporting passengers, baggage, and cargo.
How was your career path to becoming a team leader? What is your day-to-day work like?
I joined SATA in 2004 as a Ground Handling Passenger Services Agent. From the start, I was involved in check-in and ramp operations, directly supporting flights. With time and experience, I took on the role of ramp team leader, which is my current position.My day-to-day involves organizing, guiding, and monitoring the team according to operational needs. I hold briefings with managers and monitor all ramp operations. Our focus is always on safety and punctuality: ensuring that passengers, baggage, cargo, and mail travel on time and in complete safety.
What makes this job different for you? Do you feel it’s routine, or does every day bring something new?
This job is anything but routine. Every day brings its challenges. Ramp operation is demanding and fast-paced by nature. We must deal with variables like the weather or late-minute changes, and always stay sharp. It takes constant focus—and that’s something I thrive on.Leading such a diverse team is another challenge that I value. Each member has their own personality, and that enriches the work environment. The secret is knowing how to listen, promote closeness, and ensure everyone understands their role in the operation. I want everyone on the team to feel that I am available and that they can count on me.
What would you like passengers to learn about your work, something they don’t typically see?
So much happens away from the passengers’ sight. As soon as an airplane arrives, a series of strict procedures on the ground ensure the success of the next flight. From handling baggage (particularly fragile items) to loading and unloading cargo and mail, everything follows well-defined rules. It requires coordination, planning, and great attention to detail.
“Technology has made everything more efficient. A good example is the BRS (Baggage Reconciliation System), which has revolutionized baggage tracking.
This innovative system allows you to track each bag in real time, from check-in to the aircraft hold. In practice, it ensures greater security and eliminates errors: if a bag is sent to the wrong destination, the BRS alerts you immediately. And if a passenger does not board, the system allows you to locate their baggage quickly, avoiding delays and losses.”
How has your work evolved with the support of technology?
Technology has had a significant impact. Today, we use tablets that give us immediate access to operating systems on board aircraft. A notable advance was the introduction of the BRS system, which allows real-time baggage reading and tracking. These tools have considerably increased our efficiency and drastically reduced the margin for error.
What is essential to being a good ramp agent? And how would you define a good workday?
You need a strong personality, a heightened concentration, and a keen sense of responsibility. We are working with safety and logistics in real time. There is no room for error.A good day is when all flights depart safely and on time. When we know that passengers have arrived at their destination with their luggage, that cargo has been delivered correctly, and that everything has run smoothly — that’s our success.
Do you have a motto for life and work?
I use the same motto for both: “With empathy and humor, we make our days lighter.”
I believe that even in the most demanding moments, it is possible to maintain a light and positive attitude. When we treat others well and find a little laughter throughout the day, things get easier.
“Our focus is always on safety and punctuality: ensuring that passengers, baggage, cargo, and mail continue their journey safely and on time.”
What do you value most about your work at SATA? And what inspires you?
SATA has given me a family-like work environment, professional growth opportunities, and incredible personal development.
My greatest inspiration is the people I have been privileged to work with over the years — many of whom have already retired — and who have taught me much of what I know. These have shaped me into the professional I am today.
What message would you leave to someone just starting this line of work?
It is a challenging and demanding field, but also deeply rewarding. Airport operations are intense and detail-oriented, but at the end of the day, there is always a sense of accomplishment. I am proud to be a part of this.
