In 2024, travel soared back to pre-pandemic levels as restrictions were raised around the world. The trend of rising passenger travel is widely expected to increase in 2025. Within this surge of new passengers, airports using buses are looking to expand their fleets. At the same time, decarbonization plans like the Net Zero target by 2050 are looming alongside individual airport sustainability initiatives.
Why? The aviation industry accounts for around 3% of the world’s carbon emissions. Annually, one gigaton is produced by the aviation sector alone. And as passengers take to the skies again, countries are looking to neutralize these emissions to maintain a sustainable environment. In many airports, ground support equipment (GSE) is up next in line for electrification. GSE are the vehicles facilitating airside operations between takeoffs and landings. Equipment such as tugs, tractors, and refuelers land in this category. Heavier vehicles like shuttle buses are doing more rounds on the ramp as travel spikes, leading airports to look into their decarbonization as soon as possible.
A growing demand for electric on the apron
The momentum that’s driving forward electric ground support equipment (eGSE) is made up of sustainability initiatives and operational benefits. Denver airport is looking to incorporate sustainability into its Vision100 plan to accommodate 100 million passengers annually. Heathrow airport’s 2022 net zero plan takes into account both in-air and ground emissions. There are several examples of airports committing to green operations. Many of these net zero plans are set in motion to achieve their goals by 2030 and 2050. As it was said by the Airports Council International, “Given the scope of the task at hand, we need all hands on deck to succeed”.
Taking note of these developments, airport providers and ground handlers are responding to an increase in demand, and particularly for greener options. Aviator Airport Alliance is one such company that has reported on the rise of GSE, while electric equipment has stayed at the forefront.
For suppliers, the net zero plans are generating interest in developing new electric technology to offer airports, to replace outdated diesel-fueled apron vehicles. Supplier ITW GSE is offering smart, electric ground power units. For apron buses, DinoBus is emerging as a new player in the European market, offering fully electric buses. But is eGSE really seeing an upward trend in adoption? The short answer is: yes. According to a survey done by Aviation Pros, those with at least some influence on procurement were asked if they expected more or less electric GSE in the future. In nearly all categories, half or more anticipated an increase.
The real impact of electrification
Some airports have already been accredited with amazing accomplishments in the “net zero” department. Naples International Airport received an impressive Level 4 airport carbon accreditation level. Four Vinci airports in France and Portugal were awarded the highest accreditation at a Level 5 in the 28th United Nations climate change conference (COP28). That is to say, large strides of progress have already been made. A European study reported that electric equipment could produce 48% less carbon emissions versus their diesel-powered counterparts. Projecting this onto recorded traffic levels, over a million tonnes of carbon emissions could be averted. This is partially why ground handling providers are switching gears. A single battery-powered fleet could make a difference in the long run.
There are many important reasons factoring in, though. Many operators are drawn to the lower annual operation costs per electric vehicle. An estimated savings of up to $3000 per vehicle can be expected from its lower maintenance cost, lower fuel cost, and a longer expected lifetime. Electric vehicles and equipment tend to have fewer moving parts that need less attention, and suppliers generally ensure that spare parts are easily accessible.
The price of shifting to electrification is being aided along by governments and collaborative projects. To soften the initial blow of those upfront costs, we’re seeing countries pave the way forwards with strong funding programs. Germany is a great example, where the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Action are supporting Frankfurt airport with a €5 million investment into bidirectional charging and electric vehicles. Similar funds starting up around the world, and they’re making a real difference for sustainability initiatives by bringing airports closer to the finish line.
Electric apron buses take off
Where the apron meets the passengers, that’s where impressions are made. Of course, operations interacting directly with travelers shouldn’t be overlooked. For most growing airports (and most really are growing fast) passengers have to cross a good amount of tarmac before entering the plane. There are a couple of key things that can’t be overlooked when it comes to apron buses. Firstly, that the roundtrips should be kept to a minimum to cut down on wait time. That means that the right bus for the job has to be the right fit. To maximize passenger capacity while still being compact. Additionally, apron buses are a focal point for passengers who value sustainable practices. It’s a great way for airports to demonstrate a reputation of climate consciousness in a perceptible way. And with fast-charging battery technology, it may just be the most convenient way to step into eGSE usage.
Locations like Rome Fiumicino and JFK International Airport have already adopted a green fleet. Electric bus models are receiving positive feedback after positive feedback. Modern batteries are more than capable of completing daily operations, and charging infrastructure is quickly catching up to meet the demand. Some airports are even installing solar farms to supply their own equipment, like Vienna Airport, which boasts the biggest supply in Austria. On top of that, the lack of ongoing engine noise is a big plus for the comfort of drivers and passengers. Combine that with ergonomic interior design, and an electric bus can be efficient, spacious, and warm or cool – depending on the climate.
As it is, EVs have already changed the game in the automotive market. But the shift to green energy is reaching into all types of equipment, systems, operations, and countries around the world. The aviation world has been hit by the EV revolution just as much. Inspired by the global push towards sustainability, vehicles on the tarmac are getting ready to take part. The electric bus market is growing fast, and next time you’re on a trip, you might just catch a ride on one.
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