Sustainable Horizons: Alternative Fuels and Technologies for Airport Ground Support Equipment

Airports are exploring alternative fuels and technologies like electric vehicles, hydrogen fuel cells, and ground power units to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainability.

The future of powering ground support equipment at airports is an important topic that industry experts are discussing.

With the growing urgency to cut down on carbon emissions, airports globally are seeking methods to enhance the sustainability of their operations. One area that is receiving a lot of attention is the use of alternative fuels and technologies to power ground support equipment.

Ground support equipment (GSE) is an essential part of airport operations. It includes vehicles such as baggage carts, tugs, and fuel trucks, as well as equipment like air conditioners and power units. GSE is typically powered by diesel or gasoline engines, which emit harmful pollutants into the atmosphere. 

To reduce their carbon footprint, airports are exploring alternative fuels and technologies to power their GSE. One option is to use electric or hybrid vehicles. Electric GSE has several advantages over traditional diesel or gasoline-powered vehicles. They emit zero tailpipe emissions, making them much cleaner and more environmentally friendly. They are also much quieter and require less maintenance than traditional vehicles. Hybrid GSE, which combines an electric motor with a conventional engine, offers the same benefits as electric vehicles, with the added advantage of extended range.

Another option is to use hydrogen fuel cell technology to power GSE. Fuel cell vehicles use hydrogen to generate electricity, which is then used to power an electric motor. The only byproduct of this process is water vapor, making it a very clean and sustainable technology. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are successfully used in other industries, and there is growing interest in using them for GSE at airports.

In addition to alternative fuels and technologies, airports are also looking at ways to reduce the amount of fuel used by GSE. One way to achieve this is by using ground power units (GPUs) to provide electricity to parked aircraft instead of using onboard auxiliary power units (APUs). GPUs are large generators that provide electrical power to aircraft while they are on the ground. By using GPUs instead of APUs, airports can save fuel and reduce emissions.

Another way to reduce fuel consumption is by implementing more efficient driving practices. This can include training drivers to accelerate and brake slowly, maintain a consistent speed, and avoid idling. Simple changes like these can significantly reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

Lastly, airports are investigating renewable energy options to power their Ground Support Equipment (GSE). They are utilizing solar panels and wind turbines to produce electricity, which can then power electric GSE or vehicles with hydrogen fuel cells. Numerous airports globally have already adopted solar panels and wind turbines to create renewable energy.

The future of powering ground support equipment at airports is rapidly evolving. As the need to reduce carbon emissions becomes more urgent, airports are exploring a range of alternative fuels and technologies to power their GSE. Electric and hybrid vehicles, hydrogen fuel cells, and ground power units are all viable options that can significantly reduce emissions. By implementing more efficient driving practices and using renewable energy sources, airports can further reduce their carbon footprint. With the right investments and policies, airports can become more sustainable and environmentally friendly while still providing the essential services that enable air travel.