Electric ground support equipment (eGSE) is transforming the bustle of airport ramps. Imagine baggage tractors quietly ferrying luggage without belching diesel fumes, or aircraft pushback tugs moving jets with a gentle electric hum instead of engine roar.
As aviation pursues ambitious sustainability goals, the humble fleet of ground vehicles servicing aircraft is going green. This article – Day 1 in a five-part series on eGSE – introduces what eGSE is, how it differs from conventional ground support equipment (GSE), and why it’s poised to revolutionize airport operations.
We’ll cover the basics, benefits like cost savings and emissions cuts, examples of eGSE in action (from Singapore to San Francisco), challenges to wider adoption, the key players driving the shift, and a glimpse of the future where airports are cleaner, quieter, and more efficient.
Sustainable Aviation Fuel is a greener alternative to traditional jet fuel. Source: ChangiAiport
What Is Electric Ground Support Equipment?
Ground support equipment (GSE) encompasses all the vehicles and machinery that service aircraft on the ground – from baggage tugs and belt loaders to refueling trucks, ground power units, and aircraft pushback tractors. Traditionally, GSE has been powered by diesel or gasoline engines, operating continuously around terminals and contributing to air and noise pollution.
Electric GSE (eGSE) refers to performing these same airport ground handling tasks with battery-powered, electric-driven vehicles instead of internal combustion engines. In practical terms, an eGSE fleet uses rechargeable batteries and electric motors to tow airplanes, ferry baggage, power aircraft systems, and more, eliminating tailpipe emissions and reducing fuel consumption on the ramp.
Switching from diesel to electric GSE brings immediate environmental advantages. On average, electrically powered GSE produce about 48% less CO₂ than their fossil-fueled counterparts when using typical power grids. This means a dramatic drop in on-site greenhouse gases and improved air quality for airport workers and travelers.
In fact, a recent study estimated that if all GSE worldwide were electric, the global ground handling industry could cut CO₂ emissions by 1.8 million tonnes per year (based on 2019 air traffic levels). Beyond climate impacts, eGSE also virtually eliminate local exhaust pollutants (like particulate matter and NOx) and significantly reduce noise on the apron – noise levels can drop by 5–8 decibels with electric equipment, creating a quieter and safer working environment.
Crucially, eGSE perform the same functions as conventional gear, but with an electric drivetrain.
An electric baggage tractor, for example, still hauls luggage carts to and from the plane, but it’s powered by high-voltage batteries and an electric motor. An electric pushback tug still hitches to the nose gear of an aircraft to maneuver it, but without burning diesel.
In short, eGSE provides the “same job, cleaner ride.” Airports around the world are beginning to embrace this cleaner technology as a key step toward greener operations.
Benefits of eGSE: From Cost Savings to Cleaner Air
Adopting electric ground support equipment comes with a host of benefits, making it attractive not just for sustainability reasons but also for the bottom line. While the upfront price of electric GSE can be higher, the total cost of ownership often ends up lower thanks to fuel and maintenance savings.
Here are some of the key advantages,
- Lower Operating Costs: Electric GSE are cheaper to “fuel” and maintain. Electricity costs per vehicle are much lower than diesel or gasoline, and large airports have found that savings add up quickly. For example, one analysis found each electric GSE vehicle can save about US$3,000 per year in operating costs compared to a diesel unit.
These savings come from cheaper energy costs (electricity vs. fuel) and fewer maintenance needs. Electric motors have far fewer moving parts than combustion engines – no oil changes, spark plugs, or exhaust systems – leading to reduced wear and longer service life. Ground crews spend less time fixing engines and more time with equipment in service. - Environmental Sustainability: Replacing a diesel tug with an electric one immediately cuts direct emissions to zero at the tailpipe. This contributes to cleaner air around airports and lower greenhouse gas emissions overall. Airports are major sources of local air pollution, so switching to eGSE improves respiratory health for staff and nearby communities.
And on a global scale, eGSE adoption helps aviation meet climate targets. Singapore’s Changi Airport, for instance, deployed 80 electric baggage tractors and saved 627 tons of CO₂ annually by replacing diesel units. Likewise, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport’s early adoption of eGSE now avoids roughly 10,000 metric tons of GHGs and saves about $2.8 million in fuel costs each year – a win for both the planet and the budget. - Operational Efficiency & Reliability: Electric ground vehicles often prove more reliable and efficient in daily operations. They provide instant torque (useful for towing heavy loads or pushing aircraft), and they don’t suffer power loss at high altitudes or in thin air like combustion engines can. Their simplified drivetrains result in less frequent breakdowns.
Many eGSE models also come equipped with advanced telematics and battery management systems, giving ground handlers real-time data on battery state, usage patterns, and predictive maintenance needs. This can improve fleet management and reduce downtime. Additionally, electricity prices are generally more stable than fuel prices, making budgeting for operations easier. - Noise Reduction and Safety: Without loud diesel engines, electric GSE drastically cut noise on the tarmac. This reduces noise fatigue for ramp workers and makes communications (like a headset-wearing ramp agent guiding a pushback) safer and clearer. Studies have measured noise decreases of several decibels with eGSE, which is a noticeable relief in a busy airport environment.
The quieter operation also contributes to a better passenger experience – fewer roaring engines on the apron means less noise radiating into terminals. Moreover, eliminating toxic exhaust improves working conditions by reducing employees’ exposure to pollutants, contributing to better long-term health outcomes. - Compliance and Brand Image: Many governments and industry bodies are introducing stricter emissions regulations for airports. Moving to electric fleets helps airports and airlines comply with current and future environmental rules and avoid penalties.
For example, the European Union’s Green Deal aims for climate-neutrality by 2050, and electrifying ground handling equipment is a key piece of that strategy. Early adopters can also tap into incentive programs – grants, tax credits, or funding for sustainable initiatives – which offset purchase costs.
Beyond regulations, using eGSE signals a commitment to corporate social responsibility. Airlines and airport operators can showcase their green credentials to eco-conscious travelers, investors, and partners by highlighting reductions in their carbon footprint and participation in the aviation sector’s decarbonization. It’s an investment not only in equipment, but in a forward-looking brand image.
In short, electric GSE offer a triple win: they save money over time, cut emissions and pollution, and can streamline ground operations. These benefits are driving many airports and ground service companies to pilot and scale up eGSE in their fleets.
All-Electric Aircraft Pushback Tug in Operation at Munich
Common Types of Electric GSE
Airports rely on a diverse fleet of GSE to service aircraft, and today virtually every major category of GSE has an electric model available. Here are some of the most common types of eGSE making inroads on the tarmac,
- Electric Baggage Tractors: These small tractor vehicles tow luggage carts between terminals and aircraft. Electric baggage tugs perform the same function as diesel ones, pulling trains of baggage dollies from the baggage hall to the plane and back.
They are among the most widely adopted eGSE, since their duty cycles (stop-and-go driving over short distances) are well suited to battery power. Airports like Changi and Kuala Lumpur International now use electric baggage tractors extensively for ramp handling - Electric Belt Loaders: Belt loaders are mobile conveyor belts used to load and unload luggage and cargo from aircraft holds. Electric belt loaders eliminate the exhaust and noise of traditional belt vehicles. They quietly position at cargo doors, raising a conveyor belt powered by electric motors. The absence of engine vibration also allows for smooth, precise operation when aligning the belt with aircraft compartments.
- Electric Ground Power Units (GPUs): A GPU provides electrical power to aircraft systems when the engines or APU (auxiliary power unit) are off, such as during boarding. Traditionally, GPUs were diesel generators on wheels.
Electric GPUs instead draw from the airport’s electric grid or batteries to deliver clean power to parked aircraft. They remove the emissions and fuel burn from powering aircraft on the ground. Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport introduced e-GPUs and saw up to 90% reduction in CO₂ emissions for powering aircraft at the gate. - Electric Pushback Tugs/Tractors: Pushback tractors are the heavy vehicles that latch onto aircraft landing gear to push or tow aircraft on the apron. Historically they are diesel beasts due to the immense torque required. New-generation electric pushback tugs (some towbarless designs, others traditional) use powerful electric motors and hefty battery packs to move planes ranging from regional jets to widebodies.
They have the muscle to push an airliner away from the gate while being much quieter and cleaner at the task. Many major airports now have at least a few electric pushback units in operation, and as battery tech improves, even the largest aircraft will regularly be pushed by electric power. - Other Electric GSE: Virtually any support vehicle can be electrified. This includes electric aircraft stairs (self-driving stair trucks for boarding when jet bridges aren’t used), electric catering trucks and cabin service trucks, electric forklifts and pallet loaders for cargo, electric crew buses that shuttle passengers or staff on the ramp, and even electric air start units (ASUs) that provide compressed air to start jet engines.
Some airports also use small electric utility carts for tasks like ferrying tools or technicians around airside. As the industry’s electrification accelerates, even specialized vehicles like fuel trucks and firefighting crash tenders are being explored in electric or hybrid versions, though those are in earlier stages.
Each type of eGSE is tailored to meet the operational demands of its conventional counterpart. The good news is that for most ground operations, there is already a proven electric option on the market or in development. Ground handlers can thus mix and match electric units into their fleets as technology and infrastructure allow.
Adoption Trends: Southeast Asia and Global Momentum
Electric GSE is no longer a futuristic concept; it’s being rolled out at airports across the globe, from small regional airfields to mega-hubs. Southeast Asia, in particular, has emerged as a leader in eGSE adoption in recent years, driven by forward-looking airport operators and government sustainability pushes.
- Singapore: Changi Airport is a standout example in the region. Since 2017, Changi has been steadily replacing diesel baggage tractors with electric models, pairing that with significant investment in charging infrastructure. As of the last few years, Changi operates at least 80 electric baggage tractors on its airside, which collectively cut over 600 tons of CO₂ emissions annually.
The airport installed 26 common-use charging points that are shared among ground handling agents, an approach that lowers cost and space requirements by avoiding duplicate chargers for each company. Changi already runs one entire terminal with a fully electric GSE fleet and aims to convert the majority of its ground vehicles to electric by 2030.
The commitment extends beyond baggage carts – Changi has also trialed autonomous electric baggage carts and continues to expand charging networks as part of its Green Airport initiatives. - Malaysia: Malaysia’s aviation industry is rapidly embracing eGSE as well. In late 2023, Malaysia Aviation Group (parent of Malaysia Airlines) and Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad jointly unveiled the country’s first dedicated e-GSE charging infrastructure at Subang Airport, signaling a serious push towards electrifying ground operations nationally.
Ground Team Red (GTR), a major ground handler serving Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), launched a fleet of 20 electric baggage tractors in 2024 – the first phase of a planned 60-unit rollout, which is the largest deployment of electric GSE in Malaysia to date.
These 20 units alone are expected to eliminate 7,200 tonnes of CO₂ over their 7-year lifespan, reducing GSE carbon emissions by about 67% on that operation. GTR also projects a 43.5% reduction in operational costs, saving nearly 6 million Malaysian ringgit in fuel and maintenance over the same period.
Such real-world results are encouraging other ASEAN airports and handlers to consider electric upgrades as they look to align with national net-zero 2050 goals. - Asia-Pacific and Beyond: Other airports in the Asia-Pacific region are following suit. Hong Kong International Airport has been deploying electric GSE as part of its green initiatives, including electric baggage tractors and other vehicles. Major Chinese airports and airlines are also beginning pilot programs for eGSE, driven by government air quality mandates in airport zones.
In Japan, several airports have introduced electric pushback tugs and buses, leveraging the country’s strong EV industry. Meanwhile, India has seen its ground handling companies test electric baggage carts and even autonomous tugs in busy airports like Delhi and Bangalore as part of broader modernization.
This regional momentum is supported by Asia’s focus on smart city and smart airport concepts, where electrification and automation go hand in hand. - Europe: European airports have been early adopters of eGSE thanks to environmental regulations and corporate sustainability targets. London Heathrow started experimenting with electric GSE back in 2018 and has since deployed numerous electric tugs, baggage loaders, and even air start units across its terminals.
Heathrow set a goal to cut ground operation emissions 50% by 2025 on the path to becoming a “zero-carbon airport” by 2050. Amsterdam Schiphol pioneered the use of electric GPUs (as noted, achieving ~90% emission cuts for aircraft on-ground power) and has hundreds of airside EV charging stations to support its growing eGSE and electric bus fleet.
Zurich Airport in Switzerland boasts that about 44% of its ground handling equipment is electric as of mid-2020s, with a goal of 55% electric by 2025. Across the EU, collaborative projects like the Stargate initiative (involving Brussels Airport and others) are investing in eGSE to meet Green Deal objectives – for example, one project aims to electrify a third of Brussels’ GSE fleet and cut CO₂ by over 50%. Europe’s aggressive climate policies and funding programs have made it a hotbed of eGSE deployment. - North America: In the United States and Canada, many large airports and airlines have begun transitioning GSE to electric, often supported by government grants and local clean-air rules. Los Angeles International (LAX) has one of the most ambitious plans – targeting a 100% electric GSE fleet by 2045, in alignment with California’s statewide environmental goals.
LAX already has introduced numerous electric baggage tugs, belt loaders, and even electric buses for passenger transport, aiming to drastically cut ground-level emissions. San Francisco International (SFO) similarly has invested in a wide range of eGSE and set interim targets for GSE electrification as part of its Sustainability Plan.
On the airline side, carriers like Delta and American have ordered hundreds of lithium-ion baggage carts and aircraft tugs to deploy at their hubs, some supported by FAA or EPA grants. New York’s JFK Airport is building new terminals (e.g. the upcoming Terminal One redevelopment) that plan to feature entirely electric GSE fleets and abundant charging infrastructure from day one.
In Canada, Vancouver and Toronto airports have both invested in electrifying ground fleets as part of wider carbon-neutral airport commitments. The North American push is a bit behind Europe’s, but gaining speed especially where financial incentives and local regulations align (for example, some U.S. airports offer fee reductions or preferred contracts to handlers using low-emission GSE).
Overall, the trend is clear: electric GSE adoption is accelerating worldwide. Industry estimates predict that well before 2030, a significant share of new GSE purchases will be electric. One report projects that by 2030, as much as 60% of annual sales of cargo and ground handling equipment (across airports, seaports, and similar uses) will be electric models.
Already, major ground service providers like Swissport are steadily increasing the electric proportion of their global fleet – Swissport doubled its number of eGSE vehicles from 2016 to 2018 and is aiming for 50% electric GSE by 2025.
From Asia to America, these examples demonstrate that eGSE is moving from pilot phase to mainstream reality.
Challenges in Adoption – Infrastructure, Charging, and Costs
Despite the promising benefits and growing momentum, transitioning entirely to electric GSE is not without challenges. Airports and ground handlers face several practical and financial hurdles as they shift away from tried-and-true diesel equipment.
Understanding these challenges is crucial to charting a realistic path forward,
- High Upfront Capital Costs: Electric GSE generally cost more to purchase than conventional units. A brand-new electric pushback tug or baggage tractor can carry a premium due to the battery systems and newer technology. For cash-strapped ground handling companies, this capital expense is a barrier, even if long-term savings are expected.
It requires confidence in the return on investment and often creative financing. Some stakeholders are addressing this through pooled resources and partnerships – for example, airports, airlines, and leasing companies are collaborating to share costs or offer financing solutions for eGSE upgrades.
Governments are also stepping in with subsidies and grants to defray initial costs. Over time, as production scales up, prices of eGSE are expected to come down, but the upfront cost hurdle remains a key challenge today. - Charging Infrastructure & Energy Supply: Deploying eGSE isn’t just about buying vehicles; an airport must also install a robust charging infrastructure to keep them running. Charging stations need to be conveniently located on the apron (e.g. near gates or baggage areas) and sized appropriately for the fleet.
Airports must invest in electrical upgrades, transformers, and possibly on-site energy storage or generation (like solar panels or battery banks) to support the additional load. In some regions, the local grid might not yet have capacity to charge dozens or hundreds of vehicles simultaneously.
Power reliability is also a concern – airports need to ensure that a power outage won’t ground all their GSE. Solutions include smart charging (staggering charge times to avoid peak loads) and even microgrids that provide backup power and integrate renewable energy on-site.
Changi’s use of common-use charging points is one approach to optimize infrastructure by sharing chargers among companies. Nonetheless, building out charging networks requires significant planning, construction, and coordination with utility providers. This infrastructure challenge can be especially acute at older airports or those with space constraints. - Operational Adjustments and Range Anxiety: Ground handling is a time-critical operation – any delay in turning around an aircraft can ripple into costly schedule disruptions. There can be concerns about whether electric GSE have sufficient battery capacity to last through busy bank periods or extended operations without frequent recharging.
If a baggage tractor’s battery runs out while loading an aircraft, that’s a big problem. To mitigate this, operators must carefully schedule charging (for example, topping up during lulls) and possibly maintain some spare units or portable chargers. Advances in battery technology have improved eGSE endurance, but range anxiety still exists, particularly in extreme weather (cold can reduce battery performance) or heavy-duty cycles.
Some airports keep a mix of electric and diesel GSE during transition periods so that diesel units can serve as backup for extremely long shifts or remote stand operations. Training staff on new routines – like swapping batteries or plugging in equipment during breaks – is also necessary to ensure smooth operations. - Technical Limitations for Heavy Equipment: While small and medium GSE categories have electrified readily, some of the heaviest ground support equipment poses a challenge for current battery tech. For example, large aircraft tow tractors that move jumbo jets or high-capacity aircraft catering trucks that lift heavy galleys to upper decks require very high power and energy.
Batteries to support these tasks can be extremely large, adding weight and potentially limiting vehicle performance or operating duration. Research is ongoing into alternatives like hydrogen fuel cell GSE for these high-load cases, since fuel cells can provide electric drive with quick refueling. Some airports are piloting hydrogen or other alternative fuels (like renewable diesel) for the hardest-to-electrify GSE as an interim step.
Over the next decade, battery improvements (higher energy density, faster charging) are expected to bring more heavy equipment into the electric fold, but at present a 100% electric fleet including every last fuel truck or fire vehicle might not be feasible for all airports. - Change Management and Skills: Transitioning to eGSE also involves a human factor – technicians and operators need to adapt to new technology. Maintenance crews must learn to service high-voltage battery systems and electric drivetrains, which may require new training or hiring specialized talent.
Ground handling staff need training on safe charging practices, battery swap procedures (if applicable), and even just the different driving feel of electric vehicles. Fortunately, electric vehicles are generally simpler to operate, but any change in equipment can face initial resistance or learning curves.
Organizations must manage this change with clear communication, training programs, and demonstrating the benefits to staff (such as cleaner air in their workplace). Safety protocols, especially around high voltage, must be updated.
Stakeholders are tackling this by involving staff early in trials and highlighting improvements in safety and ergonomics (for example, no more handling smelly fuel or dealing with hot engines).
Despite these challenges, the trajectory is clearly towards overcoming them. Each year brings better technology (longer-lasting batteries, faster chargers) and more experience to mitigate operational hurdles. The early adopters in eGSE have shown that with planning and investment, the obstacles can be managed – and the payoff in efficiency and sustainability is well worth it.
In many ways, these challenges mirror those faced by electric cars a decade ago, and as seen in that sector, solutions tend to accelerate as adoption grows.
Stakeholders Driving the eGSE Transition
The push to electrify ground support equipment is a team effort involving multiple stakeholders in the aviation ecosystem. Each has a distinct role in overcoming the challenges and accelerating adoption,
- Airports and Airport Authorities: Airport operators often act as enablers and coordinators for eGSE projects. They control the infrastructure – providing space and power for charging stations, setting rules or incentives for GSE emissions, and sometimes co-investing in equipment.
Forward-thinking airports like Changi, Heathrow, and LAX have set strategic goals for GSE electrification and work closely with the companies on the ground to implement them. Some airports mandate a percentage of GSE to be low-emission by certain dates or offer benefits such as reduced ramp fees for electric equipment usage.
Airport authorities also frequently partner with government agencies to secure funding for infrastructure upgrades (e.g., tapping grants for electric vehicle charging or renewable energy at airports). - Airlines and Ground Handling Companies: The airlines (or their contracted ground handlers) are typically the owners/operators of GSE and thus make the purchasing decisions. Large global airlines have publicly stated sustainability commitments that include greening their ground operations.
For example, Japan Airlines and Delta have both announced plans to significantly cut GSE emissions in the coming years, aligning with their broader carbon reduction pledges. Ground handling firms like Swissport, Menzies, and Dnata, which serve multiple airline clients, are investing in eGSE to remain competitive and meet the environmental expectations of their airline customers.
These stakeholders drive demand for electric equipment and conduct the day-to-day implementation – training staff, rotating old diesel units out of service, and integrating eGSE into operations. Their buy-in is crucial, as they directly realize the cost savings (fuel, maintenance) that justify the investment. - Governments and Regulators: Public sector players provide the policy push and financial support that often kickstart eGSE transitions. Environmental regulations at international, national, or city level can effectively require airports to reduce emissions.
For instance, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and regional bodies encourage airports to include GSE emissions in their climate action plans. Governments have offered grants and subsidies: e.g., the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration has programs funding low-emission airport equipment, and the European Union has innovation funds that have financed eGSE trials.
Regulators may also implement standards – such as mandating all new GSE purchases be electric or alternative-fuel by a certain year. In California, state air quality rules have strongly incentivized airports to adopt electric GSE to meet strict pollution targets.
Additionally, governments setting economy-wide carbon prices or fuel taxes indirectly improve the cost-competitiveness of electric vs. diesel GSE. In summary, policy frameworks and support schemes from government bodies are a major driving force, setting the direction and helping bridge the financial gap for early adoption. - OEMs and Technology Providers: Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) of GSE and associated technology companies are the ones designing and supplying the new electric fleets. Established GSE makers like TLD, JBT AeroTech, Toyota Industries, and Textron have developed electric versions of their baggage tractors, loaders, and tugs, often in response to customer demand.
They are improving battery capacities, introducing fast-charging capabilities, and even exploring autonomous electric GSE for added efficiency. Some newer entrants and EV companies are also in the mix, bringing automotive EV expertise to GSE design (for example, startups providing retrofit kits to convert diesel GSE to electric, or specialized battery manufacturers focusing on heavy-duty cycles).
These companies drive innovation – each new model that can match or exceed the performance of a diesel counterpart helps convince operators that eGSE can fully do the job. The OEMs also often collaborate in pilot programs, lending demo units to airports to try out, and work on setting industry standards (like battery safety norms, charging interface standards, etc.).
As more airports commit to electric fleets, the market signal to manufacturers grows stronger, spurring further R&D and economies of scale in production. - Industry Coalitions and Organizations: Groups such as the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and Airports Council International (ACI), as well as specialized forums like the Airport Services Association, play an important role in advocacy and knowledge-sharing.
IATA, for example, has a working group and published guidance on transitioning to cleaner GSE, providing data and best practices to its member airlines and ground handlers. ACI has initiatives under its Airport Carbon Accreditation program that encourage airports to include GSE electrification as part of lowering Scope 1 and 2 emissions.
These organizations help align the stakeholders – hosting discussions between airlines, airports, and OEMs – and often engage with regulators to shape policies that support eGSE (like lobbying for funding or favorable regulations).
Additionally, cross-industry coalitions have emerged for specific projects (like the earlier-mentioned Stargate consortium in Europe), uniting airports, academic institutions, and companies to tackle eGSE challenges together.
The coordination among these stakeholders is increasingly evident. As one e-mobility lead noted, “Airport authorities, ground handling companies, airlines, and supply chain partners are working together to tackle the challenges of high initial costs, infrastructure development, and technological integration”.
This united front is accelerating the adoption of electric GSE across the industry. Everyone stands to gain – airports meet environmental goals, airlines save costs and burnish their brand, handlers improve efficiency, and society benefits from greener airports. It’s a textbook case of collaboration enabling innovation.
Future Outlook – eGSE’s Role in Decarbonizing Airports
Looking ahead, electric ground support equipment is set to play a central role in the decarbonization of airport operations. The global aviation industry has pledged ambitious targets like net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, and while much attention focuses on aircraft emissions and sustainable aviation fuels, greening the ground operations is an equally important piece of the puzzle. eGSE represents one of the most attainable short-term wins on aviation’s sustainability roadmap – the technology exists today and has proven benefits.
In the coming years, expect to see more airports announcing timelines to fully electrify their GSE fleets. Just as some major airports now set targets for all-electric vehicles airside by a certain year, this trend will trickle down to medium and smaller airports too, especially as the cost of eGSE falls.
Aviation hubs might establish themselves as “green airports” by achieving near-100% electric ground operations, complemented by other eco-initiatives like renewable energy use and carbon offsets for remaining emissions. We may also see airports including GSE electrification progress as a metric in their public sustainability reporting, underscoring its importance.
Technology will continue to improve, addressing some of today’s limitations. Battery advancements are on the horizon – higher energy densities will allow smaller or fewer batteries to do the same work, enabling even the heftiest equipment to go electric without compromising on performance or requiring constant charging.
Faster charging solutions will emerge (perhaps using high-voltage DC fast chargers similar to those for cars, but tailored to GSE). There is also interest in standardizing battery swap systems for GSE, where a depleted battery could be quickly exchanged for a fresh one, minimizing downtime. Such systems could be especially useful for busy ground handlers who need equipment ready round-the-clock.
We will likely witness a growth in autonomous electric GSE as well. Trials of self-driving baggage tractors and robotic tugs are already underway – for example, Changi’s pilot of autonomous electric baggage vehicles that can navigate between terminal and aircraft stand.
Coupling autonomy with electrification could supercharge efficiency gains: imagine a team of electric baggage carts that automatically regroup at a charging station when not in use, or an electric pushback tug that positions itself precisely for each departing flight without manual driving. Automation can also optimize energy use (robots can go charge themselves during idle periods).
While widespread autonomy is a longer-term prospect, its early testing indicates the airport ramp of the future could be a place where human supervisors work alongside fleets of intelligent electric machines.
On the energy side, airports will increasingly integrate clean energy sources to power eGSE. Installing solar panels on terminal roofs, incorporating on-site wind or participating in green energy contracts can ensure that the electricity feeding those chargers is renewable.
This closes the loop to maximize the environmental benefit – truly zero-emission operations when you consider the full energy lifecycle. Some airports might deploy large battery storage or even hydrogen fuel cells to complement grid power and provide resilience.
The concept of an “all-electric airport” extends beyond GSE: terminal vehicles, HVAC systems, and even airside ground transportation for passengers (buses, shuttles) all shifting to electric, fed by a sustainable energy mix.
Of course, eGSE alone won’t solve aviation’s climate challenge, but it is a critical component of a broader strategy. By eliminating emissions from ground activities, airports reduce their overall carbon footprint and improve local air quality, buying goodwill and time to tackle the tougher issue of in-flight emissions.
Every ton of CO₂ saved on the ground is one less ton warming the atmosphere – and those savings are happening now, not decades from now. Furthermore, the move to electric GSE demonstrates that the aviation industry can innovate in operations, sending a positive message to the public and regulators that airports are proactively becoming cleaner neighbors.
In conclusion, the future of airport ground operations is undeniably electric. Electric GSE is here to stay and grow, propelled by its compelling economics and environmental necessity. The coming decade will likely see diesel equipment steadily phased out; the sight of a smoking tug or the sound of a sputtering GPU may eventually become as outdated as open-air jet engines on passenger planes.
In its place: sleek electric vehicles gliding around the apron, quietly doing their jobs, connected into smart energy systems, and contributing to a sustainable aviation ecosystem.
For newcomers and industry veterans alike, now is the time to get acquainted with eGSE technology – it’s the new workhorse of the tarmac and the backbone of the eco-airport of tomorrow.
As this series continues in the coming days, we will delve deeper into specific facets of electric GSE, from technology and infrastructure to case studies and best practices, charting a course toward greener, more efficient airport operations for all.
Sources:
- Valerie Layan, Schneider Electric Blog – The Important Role of GSE in Airport Sustainability, Nov 16, 2020.
- DLL Group, Driving the Future: Electrifying Airport Ground Handling Equipment, Jan 21, 2025.
- EVinfo.net, Airports Quickly Embracing Electric Ground Support Equipment, Jan 2025.
- IATA, Ground Ops of the Future – Electric GSE Section, 2023.
- AviationPros News, GTR Launches Electric Baggage Tractors at KLIA, Oct 14, 2024.
- The Star (Malaysia), MAG and MAHB Unveil First e-GSE Infrastructure, Sep 7, 2023.
