Airport operators rely on state-of-the-art ground support equipment to meet the demanding operational requirements of passengers and aircraft on the ground.
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Ground support equipment and systems support aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO), refuelling, towage, and parking, as well as passenger and baggage transport and boarding/deboarding.
Finding the best ground support equipment manufacturers
Airport Technology has listed leading suppliers of ground support equipment and systems based on its experience in the sector. These companies offer a range of customised equipment and systems such as passenger boarding ramps, aircraft access stands, MRO tools, specialised vehicles, power conversion and supply solutions, and aircraft docking and maintenance platforms.
The information available in the download document is useful for airport owners, airlines, procurement officers, airport managers, air cargo handlers, ground handling staff and other individuals involved in the acquisition, operation and maintenance of airport and aircraft ground support equipment.
Ground support equipment companies
The download contains detailed information on the manufacturers and suppliers, as well as their solutions and contact details to aid with purchasing or hiring decisions.
Ground support equipment list
Ground support equipment and systems available for airport operators include, but are not limited to:
- Airport ground support equipment, management, and consultancy services
- Ground support equipment and services for airports
- Customised terminal equipment and support services
- Explosion-proof aircraft hangar ground support plugs, receptacles, and cable assemblies
- Aircraft ground support equipment, power units and underground service pits
- Lightweight portable load banks for airports and aircraft
- Conveyor belt loaders, lavatory servicing units, potable water units and passenger steps
- Towbar-less aircraft tractors and recovery systems
- Portable ground power equipment, aircraft refuellers and terminal tractors
The role of aviation ground support for airports and aircraft
Best-in-class ground support equipment is essential for airlines, airports, air cargo transport providers, ground handlers and fixed-base operators (FBO) to meet growing air passenger traffic, air cargo volumes and aircraft movements.
Development of aviation infrastructure, including the construction of new airports, as well as the expansion of existing airports, further increases the need for the best ground support equipment and services.
For full details (including contact details) on the leading companies within this space, download the free Buyer’s Guide below:
Frequently asked questions
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What types of aircraft ground support equipment are commonly used?
Aircraft ground support equipment includes passenger boarding stairs, aircraft tugs, refuelers, baggage conveyors, and ground power units. These tools support a variety of operations such as maintenance, refuelling, aircraft towage, and boarding, ensuring the smooth operation of aircraft on the ground.
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How does ground support equipment contribute to airport efficiency?
Ground support equipment enhances airport efficiency by ensuring quick turnaround times for aircraft between flights. Tools like baggage conveyors and refuelers speed up loading, unloading, and servicing, reducing delays and improving operational performance.
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What safety measures are in place for ground support operations?
Safety measures for ground support operations include anti-collision systems on equipment, reflective markings, and regular safety inspections. Proper training for personnel on safe equipment handling also ensures that operations run smoothly without compromising worker safety or causing damage to aircraft.
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How do aircraft tugs assist in ground operations?
Aircraft tugs are essential for moving aircraft around airports, especially when taxiing is not an option. Towbarless tugs are often used to reduce the risk of damage to the nose gear, making it easier to manoeuvre large aircraft into position for takeoff or maintenance.
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What are the environmental considerations for ground support equipment?
Many airports are adopting electric ground support equipment to reduce emissions and noise pollution. Electric-powered baggage loaders, refuelers, and tugs help minimise the airport’s carbon footprint, contributing to more sustainable airport operations.