Company insight
Sustainability takes centre stage in aviation
The urgency to combat climate change grows stronger and more pressing every day, and the aviation industry needs to play its part. Advancing technologies mean the transition towards a sustainable future is looking less like science fiction and achieving net zero is closer than we think. Vestergaard Company, with their fleet of electric ground vehicles, is one of those companies helping that progress.
s the urgency to address climate change intensifies, industries across the globe are seeking ways to reduce their environmental footprint. Aviation, in particular, faces significant challenges in finding sustainable solutions due to its heavy reliance on fossil fuels and the associated carbon emissions. However, recent advancements in technology and the growing focus on sustainability have brought about remarkable changes in aviation ground handling operations. From electric loaders and pushback tractors to hybrid and fully electric de-icers, the industry is making great strides towards achieving sustainability goals.
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A path to sustainable air travel Aviation’s contribution to greenhouse gas emissions cannot be overlooked, with thousands of tons of CO2
Vestergaard Company manufactures, distributes and supports state of the art ground support equipment (aircraft de-icing, vacuum toilet and water services, and aircraft washers) to the global aviation industry.
released
each flight. However, the development of sustainable aircraft fuel and the promising potential of power-to-X technology offer hope for a greener future. Sustainable aircraft fuel, also known as e-kerosene, is being extensively researched and is expected to power aircraft sustainably in the not-so-distant future. The use of renewable energy sources for producing e-kerosene could significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the aviation industry.
Ground handling operations and sustainability
While the focus on reducing emissions during flight operations is crucial, the environmental impact of ground handling operations should not be underestimated. Studies indicate that approximately 16% of the total environmental footprint of aviation occurs on the ground. Consequently, airports and industry
30 “[Electric] vehicles emit zero CO2 , produce no
small particle pollution and generate minimal noise on the airport apron. The implementation of such electric equipment has the potential to save operators significant energy costs, estimated to be between 50–70%.”
stakeholders are increasingly recognising the need to prioritise sustainable practices in this area.
Several electric alternatives for ground handling operations have already emerged, offering a cleaner and more efficient approach. Electric loaders, baggage tractors, pushback and tow trucks, as well as water and lavatory service trucks, have gained popularity in recent years. These vehicles emit zero CO2
, produce no small particle pollution and generate minimal noise on the airport apron. The implementation of such electric equipment has the
potential to save operators significant energy costs, estimated to be between 50–70%. Additionally, the use of electric ground vehicles presents an opportunity for reducing manpower requirements, addressing the ongoing challenge of labour shortages within the industry. Kalmar Motor and Vestergaard Company are notable pioneers in the development and implementation of sustainable ground operations equipment. Kalmar Motor’s electric pushback and tow tractors have been available for over a decade, showcasing their quality and reliability. These vehicles have
Future Airport /
www.futureairport.com
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