Contribution by GreenDKinSEA member, ITW GSE
Copyright ITW GSE
Sustainability is one of the key focus areas in the aviation industry today. Fortunately, there are multiple parties leading sustainability initiatives in aircraft ground handling. This varies from airport to airport, but in general it is the airports, airlines, and ground handling companies that are leading the green initiatives.
Often large airports are located close to major cities, meaning cities and airports are coming into ever-closer contact. This leads to stricter requirements in terms of acceptable emissions levels, resulting in a growing interest in electrically powered ground power units (GPU) and pre-conditioned air (PCA) units which effectively supports the airports’ sustainability goals.
The vision of ITW GSE is to supply the aviation industry with clean, reliable, and cost-efficient GSE systems and provide sustainable and innovative solutions, and the rise in demand for greener GSE solutions reflects the industry’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
Airport developments
Following the global trend, the South-East Asian aviation industry is seeing an increase in new airport developments showing increased demand for more environmentally friendly solutions, particularly in countries like Thailand, Philippines, Vietnam and Singapore etc.
One noteworthy project showcasing a strong commitment to sustainability is Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport which has equipped its new satellite terminal with electric ground support equipment mounted under the Passenger Boarding Bridges. The new satellite terminal opened in September 2023, bringing Suvarnabhumi Airport's annual passenger handling capacity to 60 million.
ITW GSE supplied 180 pieces of equipment including 72 GPUs and 36 PCAs units to the Bangkok Suvarnabhumi new satellite terminal. These electric GPUs and PCAs are making a substantial impact on reducing emissions with a potential to cut carbon emissions by nearly 90,000 metric tons of CO₂ annually at this terminal alone. Additionally, with no need for tractors to tow Diesel Powered GPUs and PCAs on the apron, ground safety is also enhanced.
ITW GSE ApS has been a supplier to Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport since it’s opening in 2006.
About ITW GSE
ITW GSE is a leading supplier of ground power units, pre-conditioned air units, cables and hoses, with roots stretching back nearly 100 years. From single-gate to complete-airport installations, the company’s premium solutions are tailored to exact individual needs. Based in Odense, Denmark, and Palmetto, Florida, ITW GSE has additional offices in the UAE and Singapore. ITW GSE is part of Illinois Tools Works (ITW), a Fortune 500 corporation and a diversified manufacturer of advanced industrial technology with 82 business divisions located in 52 countries employing approximately 43,000 worldwide.
Comments