AIR CARG O WEEK


CARGO TECHNOLOGY


HOW ELECTRIC GSE IS POWERING A QUIET REVOLUTION ON THE TARMAC


“Electric GSE often comes with lower maintenance and fuel costs compared to diesel equivalents”


T push to decarbonise aviation-related operations,


he shift to Electric Ground Support Equipment (GSE) at airports across the aviation industry is promising a quiet yet significant transformation. Airports around the world are accelerating a shift from diesel-powered GSE to electric alternatives. This transition is part of a broader reduce local


air pollution and improve operational efficiency on the tarmac. While aircraft themselves remain among the hardest emitters to decarbonise, the movement toward electrification on the ground represents low-hanging fruit in the effort to green the skies. A recent study by


IATA shows that, based on an average


EU country, electrical GSE (eGSE) produce 35-52% less CO2 emissions and up to 5.5 to 8.3 dB lower noise emissions than traditional GSE per turnaround.


Understanding GSE GSE refers to the vehicles and machinery used to service aircraft between flights while on the tarmac. This includes baggage tugs, belt loaders, passenger stairs, pushback tractors, cargo loaders and air conditioning and power units. Traditionally, most of this equipment has been powered by diesel or gasoline engines - emitting carbon dioxide (CO2


), nitrogen oxides (NOx


in high concentrations around terminals and runways. Given the constant movement of aircraft and ground crews


in tightly regulated spaces, GSE plays a critical role in keeping airports


functioning efficiently. However, its diesel-powered


nature presents several challenges: greenhouse gas emissions, air quality degradation, high maintenance costs and noisy operations.


Why the shift to electric GSE? The shift toward electric GSE is motivated by several converging factors: Governments and international bodies are placing increased pressure on airports to reduce their environmental footprint. Initiatives like the Airport Carbon Accreditation programme from Airports Council


International (ACI) have encouraged airports


to adopt cleaner practices. Many major airports, including Los Angeles International (LAX), Amsterdam Schiphol and Heathrow, have set targets to become carbon-neutral or net-zero within the next few decades. Transitioning to electric GSE is a tangible step in that direction. Electric GSE often comes with lower maintenance and fuel


), and particulate matter


costs compared to diesel equivalents. These vehicles have fewer moving parts, reducing downtime and the need for frequent servicing. Moreover, with fluctuating fossil fuel prices, electricity can provide a more stable and often cheaper energy source. Although the upfront cost of electric equipment is typically higher, total cost of ownership over time is proving to be competitive - or even advantageous. Airports are dense with activity, and poor air quality around


terminals and baggage areas has long been a concern for workers. Diesel exhaust is linked to respiratory issues and other health risks. Electric GSE produces no tailpipe emissions, helping to create a safer working environment and improve local air quality - particularly important


for enclosed or semi-enclosed airport


spaces. Battery technology has improved significantly over the past


decade. Modern lithium-ion batteries offer better performance, faster charging times, increasingly


and viable for longer life spans, making them the high-intensity demands of airport


operations. In addition, software tools for fleet management and telematics have matured, making it easier to monitor electric GSE usage and maintenance needs. In 2021, San Diego was awarded $3.9 million in grant money


In 2021, San Diego was awarded $3.9 million in grant money from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to purchase and install 39 dual-port charging stations


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from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to purchase and install 39 dual-port charging stations for 78 pieces of electric GSE. The funds were granted through the FAA’s Voluntary Airport Low Emissions (VALE) programme that improves airport air quality and provides air quality credits for future airport development.


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