Pilot John International has expanded its mobile GSE maintenance service across the U.S., offering on-site preventative maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs to minimize downtime for aviation operators. Staffed by OEM-trained technicians, the service eliminates offsite transport needs, reducing costs and improving efficiency. The initiative supports FBOs, MROs, and corporate flight departments with compliant, high-quality maintenance for various GSE types, including ground power units, tugs, and towbars. PJi’s President emphasized the company’s commitment to convenient, expert service that keeps operations running smoothly.

Lufthansa and Fraport have collaborated to introduce the AI system "seer" at Frankfurt Airport. By monitoring and automatically recording the aircraft turnaround processes in real time (such as boarding and refueling), it aims to enhance efficiency and punctuality. Currently, it has been applied to five parking stands and is planned to be expanded to 20 by the end of the year. This technology was developed by Lufthansa's subsidiary zeroG, combining the strengths of both parties to optimize airport operations.

Hamburg Airport is trialling hydrogen-powered GSE as part of its Net Zero 2035 decarbonisation strategy. Hydro Technology Motors (HTM) has converted a diesel baggage tractor for the trial, which will last 6-9 months to examine technical functionality, fuel consumption and economic feasibility of wider application. This, integrating a hydrogen combustion engine into an in-operation production vehicle, is a step further than its 2019 hydrogen-based tug trial. It follows a similar UK trial by Exeter Airport in April, with both aiming for fossil-free ground handling.

Helsinki Airport, operated by Finnish airport operator Finavia, has been verified through the international Airport Carbon Accreditation programme to have achieved the goal of net-zero emissions, becoming the fifth airport in the group to receive this certification. The programme has seven levels, with the highest Level 5 requiring airports to achieve at least a 90% absolute reduction in Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions, and commit to reaching net-zero in Scope 3 emissions by 2050. Currently, more than 640 airports worldwide are participating in the programme, and only about 20 have obtained net-zero certification, 5 of which are Finavia's airports. Emissions at Helsinki Airport mainly come from energy consumption of infrastructure. It has achieved emission reduction by fully using renewable or carbon-free energy, and plans to have all 20 of its airports reach net-zero emissions by the end of 2025.

Swissport plans to invest over 15 billion euros in environmental protection technologies over the next five years, including electric ground support equipment (GSE) and renewable energy, in order to achieve the goal of 55% GSE electrification by 2032. The company currently has the world's largest GSE fleet (approximately 14,500 units), with an electrification rate of 25%. Over the past 18 months, it has purchased over 1,000 hybrid and electric equipment and deployed them in 28 countries. It also collaborates with top manufacturers to ensure the performance of the equipment, contributing to emission reduction and the climate goals of airline customers.

Mallaghan’s SkyBelt electric belt loader has been named Product Leader of the Year 2025 by Ground Support Worldwide, recognizing its sustainability, efficiency, and adoption at major airports. This follows another recent win—the Manufacturing Future Award—for Mallaghan’s apprentice training initiatives. CEO Ronan Mallaghan highlights the company’s dual focus on innovation and talent development, reinforcing its leadership in aviation ground support solutions.

The Lithium SAFEFlex lithium battery solution of Green Cubes Technology is leading the green transformation of airport Ground service equipment (GSE). This solution adopts lithium iron phosphate (LFP) technology, featuring high safety, long service life and wide temperature adaptability (-40°C to + 50°C). It is adapted to the high-frequency operation requirements of airports through IP65 protection design and intelligent interconnection functions (CANBus, IoT). Compared with traditional fuel equipment, its carbon emissions are significantly reduced. At the same time, it supports multi-voltage customization solutions (20-96 volts), and the charging efficiency is increased by 50%. It has been widely applied in luggage trailers, cargo loaders and other equipment. As the global aviation industry accelerates its pursuit of sustainable development goals, SAFEFlex technology has become a key driving force for the electrification of airport infrastructure by empowering clean and efficient grou

The second-hand airport ground support equipment (GSE) market has continued to grow due to supply chain delays, long delivery times for new equipment, and regional demand differences. Developing countries and small airports prefer renovated equipment that is easy to maintain, while large airports mostly choose brand-new aircraft models. The supply chain issues of manufacturers have intensified the demand for second-hand equipment. Enterprises are responding to the challenges through their own parts inventory and recycling strategies, but external procurement and capacity fluctuations may affect delivery efficiency.

INFORM has launched GroundStar TeamWork, a digital task allocation tool for airlines and ground handlers. The solution enhances efficiency by enabling frontline managers to assign tasks via a mobile-first interface, replacing manual processes. It provides real-time flight and staff data, improves break planning, and helps mitigate disruptions through data-driven decisions. The tool reduces delays, optimizes workforce deployment, and supports smoother apron and terminal operations.

Finavia’s Helsinki Airport has achieved net zero carbon emissions for its direct operations, as certified by the Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) programme. Only about 20 airports worldwide hold this distinction, with five under Finavia’s management. The accomplishment follows a shift to 100% renewable energy for infrastructure needs, including lighting, heating, and ground vehicles. Helsinki Airport first became carbon neutral in 2017, but net zero marks a more significant milestone. Finavia aims for all 20 of its airports to reach net zero by 2025, reinforcing its leadership in sustainable aviation.

Goldhofer’s baggage tractor portfolio includes diesel (Sherpa D) and electric (Sherpa E) models, with modular designs catering to varying operational needs. The Sherpa E uses high-voltage lithium-ion batteries, offering flexible configurations to support airport electrification efforts. Demand is currently split 50/50 between diesel and electric, but Goldhofer anticipates a 70/30 shift toward electric models due to tightening emissions regulations, particularly in Europe. While infrastructure challenges persist in some regions, the push for net-zero targets is accelerating the adoption of battery-powered GSE.

Textron GSE has launched the Premier TT4000, a specialized tanker truck that enhances airport de-icing operations by rapidly refilling de-icers on the ramp. Featuring a 4,000-gallon capacity, high-speed pumps, and stainless steel glycol tanks, the truck reduces downtime and improves efficiency. Its robust design, including a Freightliner chassis and 30 mph speed limit, ensures safety and reliability in busy airport environments.

Brussels Airport has awarded seven-year ground handling licenses to providers like Aviapartner, dnata, and Menzies, prioritizing electrification and sustainability. The BREEZE programme (backed by €7.2M EU funding) will install 300+ charging points and expand renewable energy, supporting the airport’s 2030 zero-emission targets. A second catering transport license remains pending.

Aviation services giant dnata announced that it will deploy 800 new electric ground handling equipment (GSE) in 10 countries around the world by 2025, with a total investment of 110 million US dollars, as part of its 210 million US dollar global procurement plan. This batch of equipment will be prioritized for deployment in key markets such as the United Arab Emirates, Brazil, Italy, the United States and Singapore to support business expansion and emission reduction targets. The CEO of dnata Airport Operations stated that the company is accelerating the adoption of zero-emission and low-carbon technologies and working with partners to promote sustainable development in the industry.

Turkish GSE manufacturer Timsan offers five types of passenger boarding stairs — towable, self-propelled, electric, solar-powered, and truck-mounted — covering aircraft heights from 1.7m to 8.4m. The towable units, favored for their cost-efficiency and suitability at small airports, account for 70% of sales. While the industry moves toward electrification, diesel remains the most popular choice among Timsan’s clients. Solar-powered stairs are gaining traction in sunnier regions due to low operating costs. Timsan integrates CAN bus systems and Aircraft Safe Approach Systems (ASAS) into its equipment, continuously evolving its offerings to meet modern demands for sustainability, safety, and smart technologies, backed by over 42 years of manufacturing experience.

Timsan, a Turkish GSE manufacturer, specializes in various types of passenger stairs, with towable units being the most popular. Despite growing interest in electric options, diesel remains dominant, though solar-powered models are gaining ground in sunny regions. The company integrates modern tech and safety features to meet evolving industry standards.

Yutong, as a leading bus manufacturer in China, has delivered over 1,000 airport shuttle buses to more than 70 airports in 30 countries around the world. Its AB14 and electric version AB14E feature high passenger capacity and advanced safety structures, and are equipped with intelligent monitoring systems to optimize operational efficiency. Yutong adheres to the adoption of high-end bus technology, promotes the transformation of green travel, and assists customers in achieving efficient and sustainable airport transportation solutions through on-site training and data services.

The SkyBelt launched by Mallaghan is an innovative electric luggage conveyor with automatic lifting and height adjustment functions, significantly enhancing operational safety and reducing the risk of aircraft damage. This product has been deployed in several large airports and supports remote diagnosis and multiple optional configurations, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable development and intelligent ground support equipment.

Kalmar Motor is a Swedish trolley trailer manufacturer with a history of over 50 years, renowned for developing trailer-free trailers and promoting electrification. The company has been launching electric models since 2009 and has maintained a leading position in the GSE field. Despite the severe blow of the pandemic to the global aviation industry, Kalmar Motor successfully maintained production by virtue of its continuous orders and technological advantages, and achieved strong growth in 2023-2024, becoming a model of industry recovery.

Kansai International Airport has launched a level 4 autonomous luggage tractor trial supported by EasyMile technology, aiming to enhance ground service efficiency and optimize luggage handling processes. This test focuses on automatic navigation, pedestrian recognition and complex space response capabilities, and is an important step in promoting the operation of future smart airports.