Airports around the world are under increasing pressure to reduce emissions, improve efficiency, and modernize operations. While much of the sustainability conversation focuses on aircraft technology, an equally important area is often overlooked: ground support equipment (GSE).
From baggage tractors to cargo tow vehicles, GSE plays a critical role in daily airport operations—and it also represents a significant opportunity for meaningful emissions reduction.
The Shift Toward Sustainable Ground Operations
Traditionally, ground handling equipment has relied heavily on diesel-powered engines. While effective, these systems contribute to carbon emissions, higher fuel costs, and increased maintenance requirements.
Today, airports and ground handlers are rethinking this approach. Electrification is no longer a future concept—it’s an active shift happening across global aviation hubs. Rising fuel costs, environmental regulations, and sustainability commitments are accelerating the adoption of electric GSE solutions.
Why GSE Matters in the Sustainability Conversation
Ground support equipment operates continuously throughout the day, often in close proximity to terminals, aircraft, and personnel. As a result, emissions from GSE directly impact:
- Local air quality
- Operational costs
- Noise levels on the ramp
- Long-term equipment lifecycle value
By transitioning to electric or electrified systems, operators can significantly reduce emissions while maintaining—or even improving—performance and reliability.
Real-World Benefits of Electric GSE
Electric ground support equipment offers practical advantages beyond sustainability goals:
- Lower operating costs due to reduced fuel and maintenance needs
- Improved reliability with fewer mechanical components
- Reduced noise, improving ramp working conditions
- Extended equipment lifespan through modern electric systems
These benefits make electrification not just an environmental decision, but a smart operational one.
Harlan’s Perspective on Electric GSE
At Harlan Global Manufacturing, sustainability is viewed as a practical evolution of ground support operations. Through electric tractors and electric conversion kits, Harlan supports operators seeking to modernize existing fleets while reducing environmental impact.
By focusing on durable engineering, performance, and adaptability, Harlan’s electric solutions are designed to meet the real-world demands of aviation ground handling—today and into the future.
Harlan’s Perspective on Electric GSE
At Harlan Global Manufacturing, sustainability is viewed as a practical evolution of ground support operations. Through electric tractors and electric conversion kits, Harlan supports operators seeking to modernize existing fleets while reducing environmental impact.
By focusing on durable engineering, performance, and adaptability, Harlan’s electric solutions are designed to meet the real-world demands of aviation ground handling—today and into the future.
Looking Ahead
As airports continue to invest in cleaner, more efficient operations, electric ground support equipment will play an increasingly vital role. Sustainability in aviation isn’t achieved through a single change—it’s built through many operational decisions working together.
Electric GSE is one of those decisions, delivering measurable benefits for airports, operators, and the environment alike.
How Electric GSE Is Reducing Emissions at Airports Worldwide