Working the Ramp in Any Weather

By the TakeMyShift team · October 31, 2026 · 5 min read

Office workers check the weather to decide whether to bring a jacket. Ramp workers check the weather to decide how their whole day is going to go. The ramp has no roof, the concrete holds heat in summer and cold in winter, and jet blast turns a breeze into a gale. You can't change the weather, but you can change how ready you are for it. Here's a season-by-season guide.

Hot days: heat is the sneaky one

Heat is easy to underestimate because it builds slowly. By the time you feel bad, you're already behind. The ramp can be much hotter than the forecast, because the sun bounces off the concrete and the aircraft skin.

• Drink before you're thirsty. Start drinking water before your shift, not halfway through it. Keep a refillable bottle where you can grab it between flights.
• Wear light, breathable layers. Moisture-wicking shirts dry faster than cotton. Follow your uniform rules, but choose the lightest approved options.
• Protect your head and eyes. Approved sunglasses and sunscreen make a long day much easier. Sunburn on the back of the neck is a classic ramp rookie mistake.
• Know the warning signs. Dizziness, headache, nausea, cramps or confusion are signs of heat illness. Tell your lead and get to shade and water right away. Don't try to tough it out.

Rain: stay dry and stay on your feet

Rain makes everything slower and slicker. Bag carts, belt loaders and painted lines all get slippery, and wet bags get heavier.

• Good rain gear is worth the money. A real waterproof jacket and pants, not a "water-resistant" one, will keep you dry for a whole shift.
• Footwear matters most. Slip-resistant, waterproof safety boots are your most important piece of gear. Wet socks for eight hours will ruin your day.
• Bring a backup. Keep a dry shirt, socks and gloves in your locker or bag. Changing on your break feels amazing.
• Slow down on wet surfaces. Rushing on a wet ramp is how people fall. A few seconds saved is never worth an injury.

Cold days: layers win

Cold weather is tiring in a different way. Your body works harder to stay warm, and stiff muscles are easier to strain.

• Dress in layers. A thin base layer, a warm middle layer and a windproof outer layer let you adjust as you move between the ramp, the bin and the break room.
• Hands and feet first. Insulated gloves that still let you grip, warm socks and insulated boots make the biggest difference.
• Warm up before you lift. Cold muscles are tight muscles. A minute of stretching before your first flight helps.
• Watch for ice. Ice near the aircraft, on stairs and on equipment steps is a serious hazard. Report it and take your time.

Wind and storms

Wind on the ramp is more than uncomfortable. It can push open cargo doors, move loose items into engines and make it hard to hear. Keep loose items secured, keep your hearing protection on, and follow your station's rules for high winds. When lightning is in the area, airports stop ramp work for a reason. If the ramp is closed, it's closed. Never go back out until the all-clear is given.

Look out for each other

The best crews keep an eye on one another. If a coworker looks pale, confused or is shivering, say something. Offer water, cover them for a minute so they can cool down or warm up, and let your lead know. On a bad weather day, the whole team gets through it together.

Your bad-weather bag

• Refillable water bottle
• Spare socks, shirt and gloves
• Sunscreen and approved sunglasses
• Waterproof jacket and pants
• Warm hat or liner that fits under your gear
• A snack for when breaks get pushed back

Always follow your employer's uniform and safety rules first. Your station may have specific gear it provides or requires.

How TakeMyShift helps

Bad weather often means delays and long days. If a storm wrecks your plans, you can post a shift in TakeMyShift and it goes straight to coworkers in your same position at your base. It's free. Read the app guide.

← Previous: Calling Out Sick vs. Giving Away a Shift  ·  More crew tips →