Electrification GSE

A flight relies on dozens of vehicles on the ground. You mostly do not notice them, yet they keep the airport running every day. Partners tested electric alternatives to make airport operations cleaner and quiet. 

Electrification is one of the most efficient ways to reduce emissions from airport operations. But first, airports need to test whether electric Ground Support Equipment (GSE) can perform reliably in day-to-day operations.   

GSE includes the vehicles and equipment used to move aircraft, handle cargo and support daily airside activities.  

At Brussels Airport, DHL introduced electric GSE into its cargo operations, while Athens International Airport tested electric vehicles in airside operations.  

The projects showed that electrification can significantly reduce emissions, noise and local air pollution. They also highlighted practical challenges, including charging infrastructure, vehicle availability and airport-specific operational requirements. Nevertheless, the implementation of e-GSE is progressing rapidly.