Aviation operators are increasingly adopting advanced ground service equipment (GSE) to improve efficiency and meet sustainability targets.
The trend was highlighted at the recent 36th IATA Ground Handling Conference, where industry leaders focused on integrating sustainable practices into ground handling operations.
Electric GSE is emerging as a key strategy for reducing aviation’s environmental footprint, with IATA projecting that transitioning to electric-powered equipment could cut GSE-related CO2 emissions by 1.8 million tonnes annually.
Beyond environmental benefits, electric equipment significantly improves workplace conditions by reducing noise levels by between 5.5 and 8.3 dB(A) compared to traditional fuel-powered alternatives.
Advanced technologies such as aircraft washing robots are demonstrating how innovations can simultaneously achieve sustainability goals and operational improvements.
Veronika Andrianovaite, Chief Commercial Officer of Nordic Dino Robotics AB, said such equipment delivers multiple benefits for operators.
“This innovative robot can help to reduce aircraft exterior cleaning times by up to 80%, it also reduces the number of required staff and minimises the use of water and detergent on every wash,” she said.
The technology can dramatically improve aircraft turnaround times, with Andrianovaite noting that cleaning wide-body aircraft using traditional methods typically takes 8-10 hours.
“With the computerised robot, this process is shortened to just 3 to 4 hours, which allows more efficient use of ground time,” she said.
Regular exterior cleaning contributes to fuel efficiency by maintaining optimal aerodynamics while also extending paint life and reducing corrosion risks.
Other enhanced GSE innovations include automated tugs, high-speed refuelling systems, and smart baggage handling equipment, all designed to minimise aircraft turnaround time.
According to IATA, these technologies could reduce ground damage costs by 42 per cent while creating safer working environments.
Many new GSE systems incorporate Internet of Things technology and artificial intelligence, providing real-time operational data and enabling predictive maintenance to minimise equipment downtime.
The aviation industry’s investment in these technologies reflects a growing commitment to achieving sustainability targets while improving operational performance.
